ST3444 April 5, 2013

Signal

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“Finding Balance,” acrylic and spraypaint

by Brigitte Johnston For more on this artist, see page 9.

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SERVING BIXBY KNOLLS, CALIFORNIA HEIGHTS, LOS CERRITOS, WRIGLEY AND THE CITY OF SIGNAL HILL

April 5, 2013

Signal Hill budget review at ‘half-time’ Plans continue for homeless-mental-healthcare Your Weekly Community Newspaper

center on Long Beach Boulevard in Wrigley

Good news of budget surplus may be short-lived in light of rising employee costs

CJ Dablo Staff Writer

It would have been very easy to only focus on the news of Signal Hill’s projected $1.35-million budget surplus in its general fund for the end of the fiscal year, but city officials warn that rising costs– especially future staffing costs– could dramatically change Signal Hill’s financial outlook in the upcoming years.

At the mid-year budget review at the April 2 Council meeting, Signal Hill Finance Director Terri Marsh reported that current estimates for the balances for the general fund and all of the reserve funds for the fiscal-year ending 2012-2013 will total $28.9 million.

“Even with this positive budget news, staff continues to recommend caution as we

Courtesy City of LB

CJ Dablo/Signal Tribune

Louise Cunningham (left) was honored on April 2 with the Outstanding Older American Award at the Signal Hill City Council meeting. Also pictured are Mayor Michael Noll (center) and Community Services Director Pilar Alcivar-McCoy (right). move forward,” City Manager Ken Farfsing told the Council, as he reminded the

councilmembers that the City will face a number of sub-

North LB property owners petition for Uptown Property and Business Improvement District see COUNCIL page 11

Sean Belk Staff Writer

About two years ago, just before the State decided to do away with redevelopment agencies, more than a year ago, stakeholders along the Atlantic Avenue and Artesia Boulevard corridors of north Long Beach banded together to figure out how to revitalize an otherwise blighted part of town.

What came out of those initial discussions between property owners, government officials and the North Long Beach Business Alliance was the idea of forming the Uptown Property and Business Improvement District (UPBID), a proposal that is now just steps away from becoming a reality.

The proposed L-shaped district boundary would stretch across the 8th and 9th Council Districts, extending north up Atlantic Avenue between East Market Street and Artesia Boulevard and then east down Artesia Boulevard see PBID page 4

Sean Belk/Signal Tribune

Public-art sculptures along Atlantic Avenue in the North Village business district are now remnants of the shuttered Long Beach Redevelopment Agency that once funded various improvements in blighted areas through property-tax increment funding. Now, a proposal is moving forward to create the Uptown Property and Business Improvement District intended to improve safety, occupancy rates and property values in a section of north Long Beach.

Artist’s rendering of a new center for mentally ill, homeless individuals after renovations are completed at 1955-1965 Long Beach Blvd.

Nick Diamantides Elm Avenue serves about 45 homeless people per day and is “bursting at the Staff Writer The City of Long Beach’s plans for a seams” because of an increase in the numnew center for services to the mentally ill ber of people needing its help.

“We do not wait for people to come to homeless are moving forward. At the monthly meeting of the Wrigley Neighbor- us,” Pilon explained. “Through our hood Association last Monday evening in Homeless Innovation Program, MHA the community center of Veterans Park, staff goes out into the streets and homeMichael Conway, the City’s director of less encampments to invite people to take business and property development, and advantage of the services we offer.”

No one in the audience opposed the David Pilon, executive director of the Los Angeles chapter of Mental Health Amer- development of the new center on Long ica (MHA), spoke about the center to the Beach Boulevard, but several people expressed concerns. “It looks like a good approximately 30 people in attendance.

Conway noted that the building at project that will bring much needed bene1955-1965 Long Beach Blvd. is being fits to homeless people and to the commupurchased by the City and is currently in nity,” said Alan Burks, Wrigley resident escrow. The edifice will be renovated to and president of Environ Architecture. accommodate the center, which will be “But why did you choose that location, managed by MHA. Conway explained and what assurances can you give us that that the facility will offer mental health there will not be any negative impacts to care, physical health services and job the surrounding area?”

Pilon explained that the location is training to homeless individuals, expandideal because the county mental health ing the programs MHA now offers from its 465 Elm Ave. location. He added that clinic is next door, the Social Security the new site will include an upscale café, Administration office is close by, and patio and bakery for the public’s enjoy- many homeless people are already in that ment, as well as free WiFi and a commu- area. “As for negative impacts, as is true nity room to provide meeting space for of our other facilities, we will have uniformed security personnel on site during local organizations.

“The center will not serve as a shel- the hours of operation,” Pilon said. “We ter,” Conway stressed. “It will have no will also have community outreach to get overnight accommodations, and all coun- input from people in the area and a 24seling groups will have no more than hour phone line so that anyone can leave us a message expressing concerns about seven people.”

Pilon told the audience that MHA has issues or incidents, and we will deal with provided 50 years of service to Long those things right away.” He added that Beach residents and programs in partner- MHA staff are trained in procedures that ship with the City for about 25 years. “At discourage loitering and MHA centers are our other facilities, program participants considered good neighbors by the commeet with service staff, who work closely munities surrounding their other locawith them on their recovery from home- tions.

John Edmond, chief of staff for 6th lessness and goals for healthy, productive

lives,” he said, adding that the center on

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NEWS

2 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

City officials vow to ‘minimize’ parking impacts from roundabouts, traffic circles in LB neighborhoods Sean Belk Staff Writer

When Long Beach installed roundabouts and traffic circles as part of a “bike boulevard” along Vista Street in Belmont Heights, the plan was to not only beautify the street but to also create a safer passage for bicyclists and pedestrians by forcing drivers to slow down.

The curbed islands decorated with foliage, however, caused some concerns when school buses and emergency vehicles encountered difficulties in driving around the circular medians.

The City has since modified the infrastructure, but city officials are now receiving pushback from some residents, who are opposed to the structures being proposed in other parts of the city, particularly due to the potential loss of residential parking and concerns about roundabouts being placed along a longtime Christmas parade route.

In light of recent objections,

Long Beach Traffic Engineer David Roseman has sent out a letter to residents indicating that he would work with designers and the community to “minimize loss of parking.” He said the City’s main concern, however, is “safety for vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians.”

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, roundabouts are intersections in which entering vehicles must yield to traffic already in the circle. In the case of traffic circles, incoming traffic is controlled by stop signs or traffic signals, or is not controlled at all. In Long Beach, the first roundabout, commonly but mistakenly referred to as “The Traffic Circle,” connects Pacific Coast Highway, Los Coyotes Diagonal and Lakewood Boulevard.

The most recently proposed roundabouts and traffic circles are part of several federally and statefunded projects to develop a newly

Sean Belk/Signal Tribune

Long Beach city officials are planning to install roundabouts, such as this one on Vista Street, at the intersection of Daisy and Pacific avenues as a way to slow traffic and make safer streets for bicyclists, pedestrians and drivers. Some residents, however, are opposed to the structures due to potential parking impacts.

APRIL 5, 2013

integrated bike-infrastructure system that would include new bike boulevards, “sharrow” lanes (similar to those on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore) and other street alterations, stretching from downtown to the city’s northern edge.

As part of the City’s bikefriendly efforts, plans include installing one roundabout (at Pacific Avenue, 36th Street and Country Club Drive) and one traffic circle (at Pacific Avenue and Bixby Road) in the Los Cerritos neighborhood and a 9.4-mile route with nine roundabouts and 11 traffic circles on Daisy Avenue and Myrtle Avenue from Broadway to 70th Street, in addition to similar proposals for 6th Street and 15th Street.

More than 60 percent of people who took a survey at a community meeting in January about the Pacific Avenue Bike Corridor Project said they approved of the roundabouts and traffic circles.

According to city officials, more than 3,400 public notices were sent out about the meeting and 122 survey forms were received.

Some residents in the Los Cerritos area, however, continue to express opposition.

The main hurdle has been the loss of residential parking. According to Steve Tweed, Long Beach transportation planner, each roundabout, which costs about $75,000 to install, generally requires the elimination of 30 feet of parking on four legs of an intersection, equivalent to the loss of about 16 parking spaces per roundabout. Though traffic circles are smaller than roundabouts– costing $45,000 less Courtesy City of LB to install– they too require the loss A conceptual map by KOA Corporation shows the latest designs for a project to of parking, he said. install a 9.4-mile bike boulevard along Daisy Avenue with nine roundabouts and see TRAFFIC page 15 11 traffic circles at intersections.

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NEWS

APRIL 5, 2013

19-year-old killed in possibly gang-related shooting On Thursday, March 28, 2013, at approximately 9:15pm, Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) officers responded to a “shots fired” call in the 200 block of E. Hill Street that resulted in the death of an adult male.

When officers arrived, they discovered three male subjects who had sustained gunshot wounds. One of the victims was struck in the upper body and was pronounced deceased at the scene. He has been identified as 19-year-old Sidney Wallace Jr. of

Los Angeles.

The two other victims, ages 37 and 49 and both from Long Beach, had received injuries that appeared to be nonlife-threatening and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The preliminary investigation determined that the victims were standing in a parking lot adjacent to an apartment complex when approached and fired upon. No suspect description is available at this time, and it is unclear whether the suspect(s) then fled the area

in a vehicle or on foot.

The shooting is being investigated as possibly gang-related.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Long Beach Police Homicide Detectives Mark McGuire and Greg Krabbe at (562) 570-7244. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling 1-800222-TIPS (8477), texting TIPLA plus the tip to CRIMES (274637), or visiting lacrimestoppers.org .

Signal Hill exploring options to connect with LB’s bikeways Source: LBPD

Sean Belk Staff Writer

Long Beach’s bike-friendliness has caught the attention of Signal Hill.

Although efforts are still in a preliminary stage, Signal Hill planning staff is currently exploring options of how the City may be able to link up with a citywide bike-infrastructure system being implemented by Long Beach, which has aspirations to become “the most bike-friendly city in America.”

The Signal Hill Sustainable City Committee, a 12-member working group of residents and members of the City Council and city commissions, heard a presentation on March 26 about Long Beach’s plans for improving bike and pedestrian paths throughout the city.

Colleen Doan, associate planner for Signal Hill, said the presentation by Steve Tweed, Long Beach transportation planner, and Allan Crawford, Long Beach bike coordinator, was purely educational. She added, however, that Signal Hill city planners are now working with the City’s public works department to conduct research and collect data that may be brought back to the committee to recommend any action by the City Council.

“Given that we’re surrounded on all sides by Long Beach, we thought it would be nice to see their Bike Master Plan… and hear about what lessons they have learned along the way,” Doan said. “Maybe they want to put bike paths from one area of Long Beach to another and want to go through Signal Hill… That would be a point of connection if our City wanted to do something.”

Long Beach city staff presented an overview of the Long Beach Bicycle Master Plan, which the City established in 2001, while providing a status update on implementing the plan, current projects, lessons learned and next steps.

An agenda item states that Signal Hill’s existing “circulation element” of the City’s general plan discusses “bicycle circulation,” however the general plan indicates that new bikeways “should be considered by the City, par-

FOLBA

Pet of the Week:

Kennedy

Yes, there’s a definite resemblance to the late state senator from Massachusetts. But no matter what your politics are, you’ll find Kennedy to be not connected with any party except the one he can have as your forever friend. He’s a brown-and-white tabby, about 2 years old. Meet Kennedy on the shelter side of Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570PETS. Ask for ID#A490927.

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SIGNAL TRIBUNE

3

SHOP FOR THE ANIMALS WhatYard sale Who Friends of Long Beach Animals Where 2441 E. 3rd St. When Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7 from 8am to 2pm More Info Donations welcomed. Call (562) 988-7647.

MEET YOUR CITY AUDITOR What Community meeting Who North Long Beach Community Action Group Where North Division Police Substation, 4891 Atlantic Ave. When Sunday, April 7 from 2pm to 4pm More Info During this event, Long Beach City Auditor Laura Doud will provide a presentation on her office and two audits, including one for business licenses and nonprofit Partners of Parks, which help secure corporate funding for parks in Long Beach. To RSVP, call (562) 428-7710.

FEDERAL WORKER? What General meeting Who National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association When Monday, April 8 at 1pm Where Community center at Veterans Park, 101 E. 28th St. More Info The meeting will focus on genealogy. NARFE meetings recur the second Monday of each month.

Sean Belk/Signal Tribune

Street sign indicating a bike lane on Spring Street in Signal Hill

ticularly when they would connect with existing or proposed bikeways in the city of Long Beach.”

Signal Hill is one of many cities, such as Carson, Downey and Santa Monica, in Los Angeles County that have recently considered taking a page from Long Beach’s bike-friendly movement and to develop their own bike master plans.

The Signal Hill Sustainable City Committee, which meets every other month, has previously recommended to the City Council that the city be certified as a green city and establish a green building policy, among other environmental-related issues.

Although considered by some residents as mostly “hilly,” Signal Hill still has a large portion of streets that are “fairly flat” and are conducive to all cyclists, Doan said.

Some more serious bikers often go to Signal Hill to enjoy the city’s bike paths for a “strenuous” workout, but she said the City is looking more at how Long Beach is enticing all individuals, including children and families, to ride bikes to work, events, restaurants, shops and local businesses, and “how that may fit into Signal

Hill.” Currently, bicycling on Shell Hill is prohibited because of the street’s dangerously steep nature.

One option Signal Hill is looking at is possibly updating various elements of the City’s general plan, which currently includes bike and pedestrian paths that aren’t as prominent. Such mobility elements in city planning have become “more important aspects of city circulation than six years ago,” Doan said.

She added that Signal Hill is also looking at the possibility of applying for grants.

Long Beach has received millions of dollars in federal and state grant funding for bike infrastructure since first establishing its bicycle master plan. After introducing green “sharrows” on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore that are designed to allow bicyclists to share the road with drivers, Long Beach has installed hundreds of bike racks throughout the city, has developed a “bike boulevard” on Vista Street and has constructed designated bike lanes with their own signal lights in downtown, among many other bikerelated accomplishments. The City is see BIKES page 14

FEELING BLUE? WhatAnxiety, depression and anger help Who Recovery International When Tuesday, April 9 at 1:30pm Where The Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark St. in Lakewood More InfoThe international nonprofit provides tools and practice in changing thinking habits so individuals can gain personal control over distressing emotions such as anxiety, depression and anger problems and improve life-coping skills. Call (562) 343-5195 or visit lowselfhelpsystems.org .

BOOKWORMS, UNITE What Monthly community book club Who The Bixby Knolls Literary Society Where Elise’s Tea Room, 3924 Atlantic Ave. When Wednesday, April 10 at 7pm More Info Next month, the club will delve into To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Parking is available along Atlantic Avenue. Refreshments will be provided. Call (562) 595-0081 or email info@bixbyknollsinfo.com .

AN UNPROHIBITED DISCUSSION What Book talk Who El Dorado Neighborhood Library Where 2900 Studebaker Rd. When Saturday, April 13 at 10:30am More InfoClaudine Burnett, local historian and author, will introduce her new book, Prohibition Madness: Life and Death In and Around Long Beach, California, 19201933. Light refreshments will be provided. Call (562) 570-3136 or visit lbpl.org .

FA-L.A.-L.A. What L.A. Opera Series Who L.A. Opera and the El Dorado Neighborhood Library Where El Dorado Neighborhood Library, 2900 Studebaker Rd. When Saturday, April 13 at 2pm More Info The L.A. Opera Lecture Series will provide talks that address history, literature, philosophy and fine arts within the context of opera. L.A. Opera’s Community Educators and a team of trained volunteer experts will present. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for an opera-related gift. Call (562) 570-3136.

CALLING ALL WRITERS What Free writers event Who Hosted by the California Writers Club of Long Beach Where Long Beach Los Altos Branch Library, 5614 East Britton Dr. When Saturday, April 13 from 3pm to 5pm More Info Wendy Hornsby, Edgar Award winner and author of the Maggie MacGowan and Kate Teague novel series, will speak at the event. Doors will open at 2:30pm for networking prior to the speaker. Visit calwriterslongbeach.org, call (562) 400-1100 or email info@calwriterslongbeach.org .

STATE OF YOUR HEALTH What Community forum Who Sponsored by 5th District Councilmember Gerrie Schipske Where Houssels Forum at Long Beach Memorial, 2801 Atlantic Ave. When Monday, April 15 at 5pm More Info Schipske, State of California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Region 9 Director Herb K. Schultz will examine The Affordable Care Act and its effects on Long Beach. Call (562) 570-6932.

SAY WHAT? What Hearing device exhibit Who The Hearing Loss Association of America Long Beach/Lakewood Chapter Where Weingart Senior Center, 5220 Oliva Ave. in Lakewood When Friday, April 19 from 10am to noon More Info Local residents can view a free hands-on display of devices that help with hearing difficulties and receive information on how the devices work and where they can be purchased. Call (562) 630-6141.

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4 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

PBID

continued from page 1

between Atlantic Avenue and Gundry Avenue.

Property owners within the boundary have until today, April 5, to submit petitions to the consultant Civitas Advisors in a bid to start a hearing and ballot process to form the new district.

“The service plan is designed to make uptown more inviting to potential tenants and customers, increase awareness of the area and ultimately improve commercial activity, occupancy and safety,” said Yanki Greenspan, a north Long Beach property owner and commercial realtor for Westland Real Estate Group, in a letter to property owners.

If approved, owners of commercial parcels, schools, mobile homes, parks and apartments would be assessed fees based on square footage and type, generating an annual budget that would go toward “tree and median maintenance, economic development, business attraction and retention, promotion, security and advocacy.”

For instance, small commercial parcels less than 20,000 square feet would be assessed a lower rate than large commercial parcels more than 100,000 square feet since larger properties require more services and attention.

Single-family residential property owners would be excluded from the assessment.

The district would also be governed by a board of directors of the proposed Uptown Property and Community Association, composed of a majority of parcel owners paying the assessment and representing a variety of interests within the PBID area.

According to a management district plan conducted by Roseville-based Bennett Engineering Services, BIDs have been used in various cities throughout the country as ways to increase sales, attract new tenants, increase occupancies and increase

property values in blighted areas.

The proposed services and maintenance programs are expected to “improve safety, cleanliness and commercial activity within the UPBID,” which in turn would allow for marketing programs to “directly promote commerce and increase tenancy on assessed parcels.”

Studies have found that “businesses consider quality-of-life issues to be more important factors in choosing a location than they do tax rates and real-estate prices” and that “customers and residents may feel more comfortable and safer within BIDs that have less obvious signs of litter, graffiti and abandoned cars,” according to the plan. In addition, the plan states that a “stronger sense of place that accompanies cleaner streets encourages patronage and has increasingly positive repercussions in a BID.” According to the plan, studies show that every $10,000 spent on security activities by PBIDs reduces the average number of crimes in the district and leads to fewer arrests.

Among the 226 parcels within the proposed PBID boundary, 42 of them are properties formerly owned by the now shuttered Long Beach Redevelopment Agency (RDA). The former RDA parcels are currently being managed by the City of Long Beach, which is acting as the successor agency to the Long Beach RDA, until they can be auctioned off under the State’s dissolution process.

The Long Beach City Council, which governs the successor agency, authorized the city manager on April 3 to sign a petition as the owner of former RDA parcels, also authorizing the signature of a subsequent ballot, declaring the City’s support for establishing the new PBID. “In this new, post-redevelopment era, we should be proactive in creating strategies to continue the mission of removing blight and revitalizing the community,” said 9th District Long Beach City

Thoughts from the Publisher

by Neena Strichart

I enjoy the productivity and energizing feeling of working at a job five days a week. Many evenings and weekends are spent attending events or meetings, but heck, I enjoy that too. Nevertheless, when I’m home, I love the feeling of being in a cocoon, surrounded by my pets, loving husband and a basically quiet atmosphere.

So much activity takes place during working hours that when I am home I do the best I can to take advantage of my, as my mother would call it, “down time.”

Steve and I both keep our cell phones on most of the time, and our friends and family have a tendency to use those rather than our landline. So when our home phone rings, we figure there’s about a 50-percent chance that it is a solicitor of some sort.

Councilmember Steve Neal during the successor agency meeting. He said the assessment rates are “the most conservative in the region,” adding that, if approved, the new PBID could be “one of the most transformational and important milestones in the uptown renaissance.”

According to a city staff report, the Uptown PBID would last for a five-year period. The total assessment for the first year is anticipated to be $199,769. The assessment would be subject to an annual rate increase of up to 4 percent per year.

Jim Fisk, who manages BIDs as part of the City’s asset management bureau, however, said that, since the former RDA parcels are included in the proposed PBID, approval from the Long Beach RDA Oversight Board and the California State Department of Finance would be required.

If enough petitions are collected, ballots will be mailed out this summer and then sent to the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office. In order for the PBID to pass, however, more than 50 percent of the total assessmentworth of property owners that submitted petitions would have to vote in favor of the proposal, Fisk said. The goal is to have the PBID go into effect by Jan. 1, 2014.

Fisk said that, currently, there are only two property-based BIDs in Long Beach, including one in downtown, approved last year, and another on the west side as part of the Magnolia Industrial Group, Inc. He added, however, that there are other merchantbased BIDs, known as Parking and Business Improvement Areas (PBIAs). Such is the case with Belmont Shore, Bixby Knolls and 4th Street, for instance. The most recent PBIA was formed for East Anaheim Street in 2010.

The Downtown PBID, however, drew controversy last year since the district area included mixed-use parcels with both commercial and residential property owners, particularly condo-

OPINION

Stephanie Raygoza

ASSISTANT EDITOR/STAFF WRITER

Sean Belk

STAFF WRITERS

CJ Dablo

COLUMNISTS

Jennifer E. Beaver Carol Berg Sloan, RD

Sean Belk/Signal Tribune

A petition drive is moving forward to form the proposed Uptown Property and Business Improvement District that would involve an annual assessment on property owners within the district’s boundaries, that would extend north up Atlantic Avenue between East Market Street and Artesia Boulevard and east down Artesia Boulevard between Atlantic and Gundry avenues. Services to be provided through the PBID would include “security, marketing, economic development, business attraction and retention, litter removal, landscape maintenance and special events.”

minium owners. Fisk said, however, that won’t be the case with the UPBID in north Long Beach.

“The PBID law of 1994 says that any parcel within the district has to be assessed unless they’re zoned solely residential or zoned agricultural,” he said. “There’s nothing agricultural and nothing downtown that’s zoned solely residential. However, in the area that’s proposed for north Long Beach in the uptown PBID, there are parcels zoned solely residential. So you can’t assess them, and it isn’t a problem. There’s no contention up there.”

The Uptown PBID area encompasses the abandoned historic Atlantic Theater site to the south, where a new state-of-theart library is being proposed near the North Village business corridor, and Jordan High School, undergoing major renovations, to the north.

Eighth District Long Beach Councilmember Al Austin said the new Uptown PBID could help with “bridging” business corridors, particularly along Atlantic Avenue from the Bixby Knolls area to fur-

Nick Diamantides

Shoshanah Siegel

ther north. Although the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association (BKBIA) assesses only businesses and has received a majority of its funds through RDA, he said the nonprofit has been a “test case for success” and a “great model” for what such approaches to economic development can accomplish.

“If we can bottle that and move that to this uptown BID, it will go a long way… to expanding and contributing to the renaissance of north Long Beach,” Austin said.

Blair Cohn, executive director of the BKBIA, said that he welcomes the new PBID. “Instead of a district going unnoticed, there are cleanups and façade improvements, and there’s much more attention and focus going into the geographic area,” he said.

“When you’re in a BID, that’s what happens.”

Blair added that the moniker “uptown” used to only apply to Bixby Knolls as a shopping destination and alternative to downtown.

But he said the term is now used as “an umbrella for anything north of the 405 Freeway.” ß

inates from the Republic of Mali in West Africa. Oy! I bet the Do Not Call Registry has no authority in wherever the heck that is. However, I still stand by my belief in the registry and encourage our readers to add their numbers to that program. Yesterday morning, I visited the website donotcall.gov and found the following information, which included yet something else to concern ourselves with: Scammers have been making phone calls claiming to represent the National Do Not Call Registry. The calls claim to provide an opportunity to sign up for the Registry. These calls are not coming from the Registry or the Federal Trade Commission, and you should not respond to these calls. To add your number to the Registry you can call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you wish to register.

For those of you who would rather do your registering online, visit donotcall.gov .

Note: Mom, don’t worry about any of this– I signed you up long ago.

MANAGING EDITOR

Stephen M. Strichart

DESIGN EDITOR

Cory Bilicko

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Jane Fallon

APRIL 5, 2013

Yesterday morning, that ratio played out as indeed true when I answered the phone on my nightstand hours before leaving for work. Seeing a 223 area code, not a number that I recognized, I decided to go ahead and answer on the second ring. A slight delay was followed by a voice asking, “Hello, Mrs. Strichart? What kind of home exterior work are you looking to do?” My rather terse reply was, “I’m on a ‘do not call’ list, so how did you get my name and phone number?” The reply I received from the other end was sarcastic but actually kind of humorous. “Just like you get anything else in America, we probably bought it!” I finished off the conversation by telling him that I don’t appreciate the call and want to be taken off his list. I then ceremoniously slammed down the phone, making myself feel very powerful yet, I’m sure, making no impact on the number of unsolicited calls coming my way from unknown parts of the world.

Upon further investigation, I discovered that the 223 area code isn’t even located in the United States; it orig-

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Neena R. Strichart

NEWS

Leighanna Nierle

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/WEBSITE MANAGER

Tanya Paz

CULTURE WRITERS

Daniel Adams Vicki Paris Goodman Gregory Spooner CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Matt Sun

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Ariana Gastelum Brandy Soto

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Rachael Rifkin

DESIGN INTERN

Kaelyn Bruno

The Signal Tribune welcomes letters to the editor, which should be signed, dated and include a phone number to verify authenticity. Letters are due by noon on the Tuesday before desired publication date. The Signal Tribune reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, language and space requirements. The Signal Tribune does not print letters that refer substantially to articles in other publications and might not print those that have recently been printed in other publications or otherwise presented in a public forum. Letters to the editor and commentaries are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Signal Tribune or its staff. Although the editorial staff will attempt to verify and/or correct information when possible, letters to the editor and commentaries are opinions, and readers should not assume that they are statements of fact. Letter-writers will be identified by their professional titles or affiliations when, and only when, the editorial staff deems it relevant and/or to provide context to the letter. We do not run letters to the editor submitted by individuals who have declared their candidacies for public office in upcoming races. This policy was put in place because, to be fair, if we publish one, we would have to publish all letters submitted by all candidates. The volume would no doubt eliminate space for letters submitted by other readers. Instead, we agree to interview candidates and print stories about political races in an objective manner and offer very reasonable advertising rates for those candidates who wish to purchase ads. The Signal Tribune is published each Friday with a circulation of 25,000. Yearly subscriptions are available for $45.

939 E. 27th St., Signal Hill, CA 90755 (562) 595-7900

www.signaltribune.com newspaper@signaltribune.com

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NEWS

APRIL 5, 2013

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

Los Cerritos Wetlands advocates consider possible building moratorium for zoning update process

5

Sean Belk Staff Writer

After butting heads for years over development proposals near sensitive wetlands habitats, some local property owners and environmentalists have agreed that a zoning code governing land use on a portion of southeast Long Beach is “outdated” and needs to be revised.

The only dispute now, however, is whether the City should ban any new building projects while the city ordinance is being updated, a procedure that city officials have said could take at least three years to complete.

Los Cerritos Wetlands advocates have supported the City’s decision to initiate a collaborative planning process to revise the Southeast Area Development and Improvement Plan (SEADIP).

The zoning code, established in 1977, governs coastal development by restricting land use, density and building heights on property located near Alamitos Bay and the neighboring wetlands.

However, now that the City is looking to update the decades-old zoning code, environmental lawyers have said that there’s still nothing preventing any property owners from putting forth projects that conform to the existing code, which would ultimately undermine efforts to revise the law.

Michelle Black, attorney for environmental law firm Chatten-Brown & Carstens, said a building moratorium on development in the SEADIP area would help close any loopholes. The attorney presented draft language of a “blanket” building moratorium to the Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust at its member meeting on Thursday, March 28 at Kettering Elementary School.

“We want any plan that is approved to have a chance to succeed– not be limited by what’s already there by the time it gets implemented, so a building moratorium is one possible knight in shining armor to fix this,” she said.

Although degraded by oil pumping and other utility operations, the Los Cerritos Wetlands, that once spanned 2,400 acres, overlapping Long Beach and Seal Beach along the mouth of the San Gabriel River, is home to threatened and endangered species, including the Belding’s Savannah sparrow, California least tern and the California brown pelican.

Over the years, however, SEADIP restrictions on property near the wetlands have held back numerous building proposals because of its limits on height, density and land use, ever extending costs and time for all parties involved.

In an attempt to resolve long-fought quarrels over projects along the corridor that is already heavily impacted by traffic, environmentalists and property owners have agreed that the city ordinance should be revised with conciliations from all sides of the spectrum.

“It is our opinion that the zoning is so old and so out of date that, basically, it’s like an area without zoning, which is why you see one huge inappropriate development after another,” said Elizabeth Lambe, executive director of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust, who supports the zoning update even though not all Land Trust members agree.

The most recent failed proposition was a $320-million, mixed-use project to turn the SeaPort Marina Hotel site at 2nd Street and Pacific Coast Highway into a “southeastern gateway” with upscale storefronts, a theater and a 12story residential and hotel high-rise.

After opponents, including wetlands advocates, vigilantly argued against the project, the Long Beach City Council ultimately rejected the proposal in a divided 5–3 vote in December 2011, voting down an environmental impact report.

The project would have required variances, traffic mitigations, overriding considerations and coastal-development allowances. Most of all, the proposal didn’t conform to SEADIP, which disallows residential use and caps building heights at 35 feet.

Photos by Sean Belk/Signal Tribune

The Los Cerritos Wetlands once spanned 2,400 acres, overlapping both Long Beach and Seal Beach along the mouth of the San Gabriel River. Although degraded over the years by oil pumping and other utility operations, the wetlands is home to threatened and endangered species, including the Belding’s Savannah sparrow, California least tern and the California brown pelican.

Long Beach city officials and the California Coastal Commission, which has ultimate authority over such coastaldevelopment projects, have since called for a full revision to SEADIP. In May of last year, the City was awarded a $929,000 grant from the California Strategic Growth Council to fund the update process.

The revision to the zoning code, which would result in amendments to the City’s General Plan and the Local Coastal Program requiring approval from the Coastal Commission, would involve creating a “citizens committee” made up of local residents, property owners, wetlands advocates and other community members to collaborate on establishing the new law. The revision would also involve a wetlands delineation study of the SEADIP area and an environmental impact report, among other actions.

Just five months after the previous proposal was shot down, however, SeaPort Marina Hotel property owner Taki Sun, Inc., a family-owned propertymanagement firm led by Raymond and Amy Lin, applied for another proposal, only this time without the 12-story, residential building and featuring mostly retail.

Though the new proposal, called “The Shoppes at 2nd and PCH,” conforms to SEADIP, allowing such a project to move forward before the zoning

Michelle Black, attorney for environmental law firm Chatten-Brown & Carstens, gives a presentation to the Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust on the possibility of a building moratorium to be implemented as part of a process to update a zoning code, known as the Southeast Area Development and Improvement Plan (SEADIP), which limits land use, density and building heights on property near the wetlands. property across from the SeaPort hotel on Pacific Coast Highway, said during the Land Trust meeting that expecting the city to conduct the update process in three years is “laughable.”

He said the City hasn’t even selected a consultant or brought the action in front of the City Council for approval to go forward even though it’s already been a year since the City received grant funding to start the process.

“To think that a revision to SEADIP is going to occur in three years, when it requires the EIR and all that, again, on

coastal schedule, it’s just not going to happen,” Murchison said. “So when you’re talking about a temporary moratorium, you’re probably talking more along the lines of four to five years, in my opinion.”

He added that proposing a blanket moratorium, meaning it would apply to all property owners, could be problematic since local property owners already have project applications in the pipeline that conform to the existing SEADIP. Murchison questioned whether the City

is updated would possibly unravel the update process, creating the same disputes that have occurred for years, Black said.

“It’s likely that we’ll continue to have the same situation where developers propose projects that comply with the existing SEADIP and need to get variances for projects,” she said. “That will continue the controversy, delays see WETLANDS page 14 and expense, and we’ll be in the same situation we’re in essentially.”

Black presented language of a possible building moratorium that would last for at least one year, with an option to renew until the SEADIP process is complete. The temporary moratorium would prohibit any “building permit, construction permit, conditional-use permit, administrative-use permit, variance, zone change, or other land-use entitlement for the establishment, or relocation of land uses within the SEADIP area.”

Mike Murchison, a lobbyist for three property owners in the SEADIP area, The Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust, which was incorporated in 2001 and today has including Lyon Communinearly 1,000 members, is committed to facilitating the purchase of acreage in the Los Certies, which owns the “pumpkin patch” site and other ritos Wetlands,while reconnecting and restoring remnants of the estuary and permanently protecting its natural habitat.

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ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 6

COMMUNITY

6 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

APRIL 5, 2013

SH-based Hof’s Hut Restaurants Inc. changes name to Hofman Hospitality Group, takes on Spin pizza brand Sean Belk Staff Writer

Signal Hill-based Hof’s Hut Restaurants, Inc., owner of Hof’s Hut Restaurant & Bakery and Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que chains, announced March 13 that it has changed its name to Hofman Hospitality Group as the company rolls out a third restaurant brand called Spin Neapolitan Pizza, which will soon come to Southern California.

The family-run corporation made the announcement just weeks after closing the Hof’s Hut at 6257 E. 2nd St., which was adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway and had been a mainstay in Long Beach along the Alamitos Bay marina for more than 50 years.

The company now has five

Hof’s Hut locations: two in Long Beach (one in Los Altos and another in Bixby Knolls) and locations in Los Alamitos, Buena Park and Torrance.

According to a corporate statement, the name change was made to “reflect the company’s expansion,” after inking a deal last year to become the first franchise partner with a Kansas City-based artisanpizza restaurant company that is now being rolled out in the SoCal market.

“As our restaurant business continues to grow and incorporate additional concepts into our portfolio, it made logical sense that our corporate name reflect that growth,” said Craig Hofman, owner and president of the Hofman Hospitality Group, who was recently named “entrepreneur of the year” by the Long Beach

!ive Ar" on the Mainstage

April 13-May 11

Area Chamber of Commerce. Hofman is being honored for the recognition during a luncheon on April 11 at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach.

Hof’s Hut was first established in 1951 after Hofman’s parents first opened the eatery serving pies and American fare on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore. The company opened the first Lucille’s Smokehouse BarB-Que on the same street in 1999 and now has 16 locations in California, Arizona and Nevada. The company plans to open additional Lucille’s locations this year in Concord, Calif. and Las Vegas.

Last year, Hofman signed on as the first franchise partner of Spin Neapolitan Pizza, which first opened in 2005 and now has five locations in the greater Kansas City area. According to a company statement, Spin is known for its “artisan food made from fresh ingredients without the gourmet price, premium wines and commu-

nity involvement.”

Co-owners Gail and Richard Lozoff and Edwin Brownell first started the restaurant and are now looking to expand into the Los Angeles-area market. The owners also developed Bagel & Bagel, which also started in Kansas City and eventually became Einstein Bros. Bagels.

Hofman Hospitality Group plans to develop 35 Spin locations in Southern California within the next 10 years.

In a press release about the partnership, Hofman stated that he initially wanted to make the Spin pizza concept his own but decided to join Spin as a franchise partner instead.

“Their great pizzas and salads were so good that I did not think I could improve the recipes,” he stated. “The culture of quality and excellence that Ed, Gail and Richard have created fits well

with our core values for operating recipes.”

Spin owners added that franchising the concept makes it easier to expand restaurants into populated markets in hopes of building a national brand.

Regarding whether Hofman plans to add a Spin location to the site of the former Hof ’s Hut on 2nd Street near PCH, Brad Hofman, son of Craig Hofman, would not comment, however he said the company is still in negotiations with property owner Watt Companies after being unable to come to terms on a lease agreement.

“We have not signed anything yet,” he said. “It’s something I’m not at liberty to talk about.”

Plans for the site that have already been announced include replacing the closed Albertson’s with a Gelson’s market and swapping the City National Bank with a CVS Pharmacy.

Buono’s Pizzeria is teaming up with The Salvation Army for the month of April to promote a food drive called the “Race to Fill the Food Pantry.” Frank Buono, owner of Buono’s Pizzeria, is offering coupons for his restaurants in exchange for canned-food donations. Through April 7, a $10-off coupon for any meal that is at least

$20 will be exchanged for at least two cans of food. From April 8–30, a $5-off coupon for meals that are at least $20 will be given when customers donate at least two cans of food. The donations will be given to the Salvation Army.

The cans of food can be dropped off at the following locations: the downtown Buono’s Pizzeria, 250

W. Ocean Blvd.; or Willow Buono’s Pizzeria, 401 W. Willow St. The goal of the campaign is to collect 7,500 canned and non-perishable food items to make up 500 family food boxes and homeless food bags.

A list of the most needed items will be available at both Buono’s Pizzerias.

Long Beach Gavel Club #11, one of the oldest Toastmasters clubs in the world, will celebrate its 80th anniversary with a special dinner event at El Dorado Park on April 13.

The club was chartered on March 25, 1933 and has been active in the area ever since, providing growth opportunities for hundreds of Long Beach residents wanting to overcome their fear of public speaking and develop communication and leadership skills useful in both their personal and professional lives.

The club was chartered two weeks after the Great Long Beach Earthquake. Although it was a challenging time for the community, its 14 members decided to go forward with their plans. The club’s legacy includes being one of the first clubs to allow in women (it was an allmale organization until 1974); numerous members going on to District officer leadership roles including four becoming district governors; and many Distinguished Toastmasters, which is the highest educational and leadership level of achievement in Toastmasters.

“We’re very excited to be cele-

brating our 80th anniversary,” said Gavel Club President Michelle Darlington. “In a world where the ‘latest and greatest’ are often shortlived historical moments, it's exciting and inspiring to be a part of this club and Toastmasters International.”

Long Beach Gavel Club, 11th out of 13,500 Toastmasters International clubs currently in existence, will celebrate its 80th anniversary on Saturday, April 13, from 5pm to 7pm at El Dorado Park West Senior Center, 2800 N. Studebaker Rd. The program will include a catered dinner and presentations recalling the history of the club. Current and past club members will be sharing what they have gained from being a member.

Current club members, alumni, and past and current district leaders will be present.

“Like many people, I didn't know what to expect at a Toastmaster meeting,” Darlington said.

“I thought it would be about practicing toasts and what one would say, if they were on the spot, at a wedding or other special event. But it is definitely much more than that.

Joining Long Beach Gavel Club had increased my self-confidence, and I feel I stand taller. This is due to the experience I gain from weekly opportunities to speak in front of familiar, friendly faces. We are each on the same path and only want each other to improve.”

Gavel Club currently has 35 members, and new members continue to join. Some members have been involved for more than 20

years, including Ken McCatty since 1968, Sandy Dunning since 1988 and Bob Dunning since 1990.

“My 25-year membership in Gavel Club #11 has been a lifechanging experience,” said Sandy Dunning. “I gained new speaking skills, valuable leadership opportunities and life-long friendships.

Toastmasters had provided me opportunities to take on leadership and communication roles I may not have ever had a chance to do otherwise.”

Bob Dunning met his wife Sandy at a Toastmasters function.

“My 23 years of Gavel Club membership have provided me with a great many friends and acquaintances along with the communication and leadership opportunities that I have been able to take advantage of,” he said. “Thank you, Gavel Club.”

Guests are welcome to visit the club and observe what happens at a meeting. The Gavel Club meets every Monday from 6:45pm to 8:45pm at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 5633 E. Wardlow Rd. The club encourages anyone interested in joining to visit their website at lbgavelclub.toastmastersclubs.org .

Gavel Club is part of Toastmasters International, a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of meeting locations. Headquartered in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, the organization has more than 270,000 members in over 13,000 clubs in 116 countries.

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Local Toastmasters Club celebrating its 80th anniversary

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Pay-on-death Accounts are similar to naming a beneficiary in that the bank account owner completes banking paperwork which names the person(s) who will receive the bank account upon the bank owner’s death.

Lifetime Gifts given during your life avoids probate because probate only applies to those assets owned at time of death. A Living Trust is very beneficial when dealing with titled real property and other assets. A complete estate plan included in the Living Trust includes many ancillary documents that protect you financially, physically and allows for peace of mind.

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ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 7

COMMUNITY

APRIL 5, 2013

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

One-acre farm in Long Beach serves as local organic market and learning center for kids

Ariana Gastelum Editorial Intern

When a piece of fruit has travelled to more countries than you have, it is very unlikely that it will be just as fresh as if it were picked from a farm down the street.

As opposed to the fruit aisle at the grocery store, Farm Lot 59, a one-acre biointensive mini farm located at 2714 California Ave., provides food that is organic and local. “It literally gets grown on site in the greenhouse,” said Sasha Kanno, director of the farm. “We harvest it. We walk it to the store, and then it’s here, available for you. It doesn’t travel. It’s been harvested this morning. It couldn’t be any fresher and more full of nutrients. And that’s why we do it.”

The farm lot was 59th of 185 that were in a 4,000-acre piece of the American Colony in Rancho Los Cerritos. The American Colony was developed in 1881 through an agreement between William Willmore and J. Bixby & Co.The farm lots remained until 1902 when urbanization subdivided them into home lots. Farm Lot 59 was never developed into a larger farm nor home.

Even though the farm is small, its size doesn’t affect the variety they provide. “We have these beautiful beets, carrots, snap peas, avocados, blood oranges, kale mix, stir-fry mix, head lettuce, lots of stuff,” Kanno said.

In addition, 45 hens, with the help of one rooster, provide the

Photos by Ariana Gastelum/Signal Tribune

Although Farm Lot 59 at 2714 California Ave. is only one acre, its store has a large variety of food from which to choose. Beets, carrots, snap peas, avocados, blood oranges, kale mix, stir-fry mix, head lettuce and more are currently available.

farm with eggs. The farm is currently receiving about three dozen eggs a day. “They eat organic, and they eat all the scraps from the farm,” Kanno said. “Their eggs are full of [omega-3s], and they’re delicious [with] really perky yolks and pure taste. They’re definitely different than any store-bought egg. There’s different hens. So, they lay [differently] colored eggs. There’s blue, and there’s speckled brown and different colors. They all taste the same.”

The farm gives children the opportunity to learn about urban farming and the earth’s ecosystems. Through a tour, they explore the farming operation and identify beneficial bugs and flowers.

“They get to take home a little seed pot, and they get to share their salad,” Kanno added.

A children’s garden is currently being designed. “We are going to be developing that next year,” Kanno said. “So, this year, we are going to host more classes, build a learning center and be able to take on more school groups and things like that.”

There are also plans to build an outdoor kitchen. Kanno wants to use it for cooking demonstrations and nutrition classes. “We can show people the farm and the ingredients, but making it into a meal is when you really have a personal connection with the food,” she said.

The volunteers also benefit in several ways– besides eating the organic food. “They get to learn,” Kanno noted. “I am constantly learning too. They bring knowledge to me, and I share everything that I can with them.

People are interested in chickenkeeping [and] irrigation systems.

A lot of people have made green-

Forty-five hens, along with one rooster, provide about three dozen eggs a day for Farm Lot 59 every day.

really hot, and it’s hard work, but the payoff is just amazing,” she said. “This year, we are doing okra, green and burgundy; couple kinds of sweet corn; black popcorn; tons of tomato varieties, tomatillo, purple and green; summer squash. It’s really bountiful.”

The store is open on Fridays from 2pm to 6pm and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm from March to November.

houses off of our model. They can come and learn how to farm.”

Right now, there are six dedicated volunteers while others come and go weekly. “We are always looking for more dedicated people, of course, more hands-on people that want to come and harvest with us in the mornings.” The volunteers work from 9am to noon Tuesday through Saturday.

Kanno is excited to work at the farm during the summer. “It’s

MORE INFORMATION longbeachlocal.org

CELEBRATE NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK at the Signal Hill Public Library

April 16-20

FRIDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

APRIL 18

APRIL 19

Children’s Book Drive • Bring in a new children’s book on Tuesday, April 16 to be donated to children and families in need, and be entered into a drawing for a $50 Target Gift Card!

Signal Hill Reads Together Author Talk featuring Marty Steere and The Mars Rovers 6pm–8pm • This One City, One Book Program highlights the book

Film Night and Panel Discussion 6pm-9pm • Join us for a screening and discussion of “Race to Nowhere” with a panel discussion following the viewing of the film with local educators.

All participants will be given a commemorative certificate for assisting with the Book Drive!

by Signal Hill Resident Marty Steere.

California Science Center Excursion 10am • Visit the Space Shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center on this Active Adults Excursion.

For more information and to register, please contact the Community Services Department at 562.989.7330

APRIL 16

APRIL 17

Sea of Crises

Also a Downey Space Center Specialist will speak about the Mars Rovers.

Refreshments will be served.

7

Purchase a ticket at racetonowhere.com/ screenings/signal-hillpark-community-center

Free Childcare for kids 6-12 (must register in advance for childcare) 562.989.7330

SIGNAL HILL PUBLIC LIBRARY

1770 E. Hill Street, Signal Hill, CA 90755 | (562) 989-7323 | www.cityofsignalhill.org

ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 8

COMMUNITY

8 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

APRIL 5, 2013

Handling a delicate form of cargo A Matter of Life

Kenneth McKenzie Columnist

I received a call a few days ago from a woman while she was reading the daily obituaries. She told me, “I have a very strange question.� I told her that I had heard it all. “Well then, first of all I check the obituaries every morning to make sure my name is not listed, and if not, I plan my day.� I laughed, knowing at that moment I would enjoy her question.

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deceased person to ticketing, nor do we go to baggage claim. There is an area at most airports that handle cargo, everything from fresh flowers to living pets and sundries can be found next to the deceased. The cargo area is usually located at the far end of an airport. Typically we arrive two to four hours prior to the scheduled flight.

After some paperwork, the deceased/casket/shipping container is weighed. The unit is then placed into a luggage cart, which is attached to their mini tractors, like a small train. The cart has its own curtain, so the deceased’s container is not displayed to everyone inside the airport looking out.

The weight of each container is an important factor of when and where the deceased is placed on the aircraft so as to distribute the weight properly. Large commercial airlines typically can handle up to two human remains on board each flight.

At the destination, the receiving funeral director will arrive two to four hours after the flight has landed, to give time to move the deceased to air cargo.

There, the receiving funeral director will take the deceased to the hometown funeral home and complete the funeral services and burial. The cost of the actual flight to send a deceased within the U.S. averages about $700 and overseas averages about $2,100.

The First Fridays Art Walk in Bixby Knolls on April 5 will be a “green scene� in celebration of spring and Mother Earth. Songbirds, guerilla gardeners, seeds & saplings, recyclers, re-users, Earth goddesses and organic farmers are encouraged to show up and “green up� Bixby Knolls.

Ingredients of the night will include: live art and interactive art activities, the world’s tallest tree-hugger, break-dancers, bluegrass prodigies, reggae, blues, jazz, indie rock, up-cycled art, politicos, the Port of Long Beach, student recitals, “pot your own sunflowers,� Toaster Music sound installation, Hughes Middle School’s Green Team & Re-use Exhibit, Cal Heights Clean Streets, slam poetry, friendly goats, Conservn Mervyn and the Knolls Ranger mascot, dramatic scenes, free books, gift items, antiques, and the Big Red Bus. Other special features: Exene Cervenka of the punk band X will perform with Long Beach native Michelle Mangione at The Mirage Cafe, 539 E Bixby Rd. Salon Medusa, 4232

Atlantic Ave., in conjunction with the Surfrider Foundation, will host an Aveda silent auction to raise money for clean water.

Seventh District Councilmember James Johnson’s “First Books at First Fridays� at the Dana Branch Library, 3680 Atlantic Ave., will feature Fire Chief Mike Duree at 5:30pm.

Eighth District Councilmember Al Austin’s “Council on Your Corner� will be set up at Atlantic Avenue and Burlinghall Drive to meet and greet attendees.

Attendees may dine on “Art-Lantic� Avenue at one of the local restaurants then grab the Big Red Bus to travel from venue to venue via designated stops at the participating businesses.

Bella Cosa, 3803 Atlantic Ave., will have all the information about First Fridays, maps, business info, and restaurant recommendations from 6:30pm to 8pm.

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She had noticed that the mortuary had been sending a lot of people out of state and even out of the country. She asked, while giggling a little, “How do you get them on the plane? Where do they sit on the plane?�

California and Florida seem to have the greatest number of persons being shipped out of their states. Many people live in these locations later in life due to weather, and many others are visiting or vacationing. When a person dies away from home, the funeral director in the person’s home town will usually contact a well known funeral director to represent them in the state of death. The funeral home in the death state picks up the person where they died, performs embalming, shrouds (wraps in white sheeting) the body, and places it in a shipping unit. This unit takes the place of a casket and is required by the airlines to protect the body and to move the remains on and off the plane.

If you do not want to be embalmed, you do not have to be. Dry ice would replace the embalming procedure.

Some people having funeral services within the death state would first be dressed and placed in a casket, have their funeral service and then the casket would be placed into a shipping container.

Funeral directors do not take a

MORE INFORMATION firstfridayslongbeach.com

City of Signal Hill Community Services Department

Community Garden The City of Signal Hill is considering development of a Community Garden adjacent to Signal Hill Park.

The Parks and Recreation Commission will be considering this project at their meeting on Wednesday, April 10, at 6pm at the Signal Hill City Council Chamber.

Interested parties are invited to attend.

We are creating an interest list at this time.

If you would like to be included on the list, please contact us at ComServices@cityofsignalhill.org or (562) 989-7330.

Signal Hill residents will be given priority consideration, but all interested parties are welcome.

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ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 9

CULTURE

APRIL 5, 2013

Ex-gymnast finds new direction as painter, uses pieces to advocate for those diagnosed with ‘mental illnesses’ Ariana Gastelum Editorial Intern

It only took a second for Brigitte Johnston’s life to change almost completely when she injured her knee. Five surgeries later, it was apparent that she would no longer be able to compete in gymnastics.

Johnston searched for a new future.

She tried acting and then studied psychology. Soon after, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

When Johnston attended her first drawing class at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), she found her passion. She currently goes to LMU and will soon be finished with a master’s of fine arts in drawing and painting.

Johnston uses painting as a form of expression in her moods and a voice to reach out to those with mental illnesses.

When and how did you become interested in art?

Strangely enough, I was completely unaware of my artistic talents until second semester, sophomore year at LMU. I have always been a creative type but was a gymnast for a good number of years and sacrificed all my time to practice and [compete].

I did not have any time for [other] extracurricular activities and was planning [to compete] in college, until I severely injured my knee– which led to five knee surgeries and an existential crisis. I did not know anything beyond gymnastics since it had been my life.

I decided to attempt acting, which brought me out to New York to study at a conservatory for the summer and then Los Angeles to study theatre at Loyola Marymount.

I had always been a creative kid and tried the arts as a new passion or output for my emotions. Not satisfied with acting, I began enrolling in a number of psychology classes and found myself extremely interested in behavioral neurosciences. I discovered later that I was so interested in psychology

because I…was struggling with an undiagnosed mental disorder.

School became more difficult, but I found peace in my first drawing class and found that art was keeping me alive. It was giving me some sort of purpose. It was so natural.

Before I was ever diagnosed [as] bipolar, I wrote in my drawing class, “My art originates from my psychological states of up to down.”

I would not necessarily say that art was an interest of mine. It was innate, a part of my complex world and genetic makeup. There is a huge corollary between manic depression, or what we now call bipolar, and the artistic temperament.

Who and what are your inspirations?

My art is a result of “the relationship between moods and imagination, the nature of moods, their variety, their contrary and oppositional qualities, their flux, causing in some individuals occasional episodes of madness. My art attests to ‘the importance of moods in igniting thoughts, changing perceptions, creating chaos, forcing order upon that chaos, and enabling transformations.” (Kay Jamieson).

I sacrifice everything for the sake of my art. My art is ultimately what saves me. I am my own inspiration. My emotions guide me through pieces, from one extreme to the other.

Do you have any goals that you have yet to fulfill?

As I progress in my career, I plan on using my art as a tool to eradicate negative stigmas against what the western culture calls “mental illnesses.”

I adhere to the philosophy that things such as bipolar [and] schizophrenia should not be treated as an illness but as “dangerous gifts that need to be cultivated.”

For me being bipolar, I go in and out of altered extreme states of reality. But through this process, my creativity flourishes.

I want all [who] experience darkness to

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

9

embrace that struggle because through that struggle, an immense amount of light is able to be found. We cannot have light without [darkness], and I want a shift in thinking…on the way we perceive those who struggle with “mental illnesses.” Rather than treating them as if they are sick, isolating them, we should embrace and work as a tribe to heal.

I want to become an advocate for others, for the mad pride movements; for the Icarus Project, (a mental-health movement that provides alternatives for approaching and treating mental illnesses); [and] for those that are fighting for the acceptance and understanding of their struggles.

I hope everyone is able to resonate with my art because we all know sadness, and we all know joy, and we should be comfortable with all spectrums of emotions, face them with strength, and not be scared of judgment. see JOHNSTON page 15

“Melting Away” acrylic painting

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ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 10

10 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

APRIL 5, 2013

ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 11

NEWS

APRIL 5, 2013

Council

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

11

continued from page 1

stantial bills in the near future.

For quite some time, the Council has generally emphasized a conservative approach to reduce expenditures. Farfsing recalled a few of the ways the Council has slashed spending in the past. The Council chose to freeze both merit increases and cost-of-living raises, and they also required employees to contribute to their medical retirement plan, according to Farfsing.

The City Council has also attempted to address the rising cost of employee retirement pensions.

The city manager added that the Council more than 10 years ago established a reserve fund that would have addressed some of the problems created by the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, which is also known as CalPERS or PERS. “But in no event is that reserve fund large enough to handle where PERS is headed at this point,” Farfsing said. “The rising cost of PERS payments will be a major financial issue beginning in the year 2015–2016, but we really need to begin planning now.”

Farfsing said that the retirement system announced that it’s “changing assumptions” on earnings and younger workers’ life expectancy.

According to the city manager, the payments to PERS will increase about $660,000 annually in about two years.

The staff has already contacted both the police officer association and the general employee association to review the two-year labor agreements and to re-evaluate the choice to freeze the merit system, Farfsing said.

Marsh, along with a number of officials, credited the staff for its ability to maintain services that are critical to the city as she reported positive projections for the general fund at the end of the fiscal year.

“We expect revenues to outweigh

Selena Alanis (left) started her new position as the assistant planner with the Community Development Department in Signal Hill last month. Mayor Michael Noll (right) introduced Alanis at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

expenditures by $530,739,” Marsh said. “Please keep in mind that this does not include non-operating revenues and expenditures which are one-time revenues and costs but not ongoing….And as Ken and I have both pointed out, issues for this upcoming budget are formidable, and we potentially will need to use our reserves again.”

City Treasurer Emerson Fersch thought of one way to cut employee costs. He argued against allowing health benefits for Council members.

“In my opinion, you’ve got to draw the line with who’s covered by these benefits,” the city treasurer said, drawing a distinction between the full-time city staff and the city officials who serve on the Council dais on a part-time basis.

“People up here have other sources of income, or hopefully they do,” Fersch added. “Whereas the people that work here…what they’re here for is the security, and if we’re really concerned about the employees, it seems to me that we’d want to

cut anything that threatens the security of that, and it may be one little thing, but it’s a step.”

In addition to the employee costs, Farfsing also reported briefly on one of the larger expenditures that will affect the budget. A new regional water board requirement for stormwater permits are projected to have first-year startup costs that total more than $750,000, the city manager said.

The Council voted Tuesday night to receive and file the midyear budget review, and this vote is only a preview of more budget talks in the near future.

Budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year is already in the works. The finance director confirmed Tuesday that she will provide a staff report at the next Council meeting on the recommendations to move to a two-year budget process and to establish an audit committee.

Vice Mayor Ed Wilson, who is also an accountant, emphasized the importance of building up the reserve funds.

“It’s always good to have good news, but as an accountant, we’re always concerned with any surprises, good or bad,” Wilson said.

The next City Council will take place on Tuesday, April 16 at 7pm in the Council Chamber. ß

Photos by CJ Dablo/Signal Tribune

During Tuesday’s Signal Hill Council meeting, city librarian Gail Ashbrooke (left) announces the events planned for National Library Week scheduled April 14–20. Pictured right is Mayor Michael Noll.

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ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 12

12 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

TST4326 Trustee Sale No. 255494CA Loan No. 0709249742 Title Order No. 1031270 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 02-01-2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 04-19-2013 at 9:00 AM, CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded 02-09-2006, Book N/A, Page N/A, Instrument 06 0305428, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, California, executed by: MILLICENT DICKINSON, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN, as Trustor, WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA, as Beneficiary, will sell at public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state. Sale will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to the Deed of Trust. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Place of Sale: BEHIND THE FOUNTAIN LOCATED IN CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, 400 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, POMONA, CA Legal Description: PARCEL 1: UNIT NO. 17, AS SHOWN AND DESCRIBED IN THE CONDOMINIUM PLAN FOR TRACT 35227, RECORDED ON DECEMBER 18, 1981 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 81-1244757.

PARCEL 2: AN UNDIVIDED 1/82 INTEREST AS TENANT IN COMMON IN LOT 1 OF TRACT 35227, IN THE CITY OF SIGNAL HILL, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 970 PAGES 71 AND 72 OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. EXCEPT THEREFROM UNITS 1 TO 82, INCLUSIVE, AS SHOWN AND DESCRIBED IN THE CONDOMINIUM PLAN REFERRED TO IN PARCEL 1. ALSO EXCEPT THEREFROM A PORTION OF SAID LAND, THE TITLE TO AND OWNERSHIP OF AN UNDIVIDED 8 PERCENT OF ALL OIL, GAS AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES UNDER SAID LAND, OR WHICH MAY BE EXTRACTED FROM OR PRODUCED FROM OR UPON SAID LAND, PROVIDED SUCH OIL, GAS OR OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES ARE DISCOVERED AND PRODUCTION IS COMMENCED WITHIN A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS FROM JANUARY 30, 1946, AND UPON THE HAPPENING OF SUCH EVENTS, THEN GRANTOR`S RESERVED INTEREST SHALL CONTINUE SO LONG AS OIL OR GAS OR ANY HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES ARE PRODUCED OR ARE CAPABLE OF BEING PRODUCED FROM SAID PROPERTY, AS RESERVED AND EXCEPTED IN THE DEED FROM MAURICE S. HUBBELL AND RUTH B. HUBBELL, HIS WIFE TO ARGUS MOYLE, A WIDOWER, DOING BUSINESS AS MOYLE OIL COMPANY, DATED JANUARY 30, 1946, RECORDED ONE JUNE 26, 1946, IN BOOK 23389 PAGE 101, OFFICIAL RECORDS. EXCEPT THEREFROM, ALL OIL, OIL RIGHTS, NATURAL GAS RIGHTS, MINERAL RIGHTS, AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES BY WHATEVER NAME KNOWN, TOGETHER WITH APPURTENANT RIGHTS THERETO, WITHOUT, HOWEVER, ANY RIGHT TO ENTER UPON THE SURFACE OF SAID LAND NOR ANY PORTION OF THE SUBSURFACE LYING ABOVE A DEPTH OF 300 FEET, AS EXCEPTED OR RESERVED IN INSTRUMENTS OF RECORD. PARCEL 3: AN EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT FOR BALCONIES/PATIO PURPOSES OVER THAT PORTION SHOWN AND DESCRIBED IN THE CONDOMINIUM PLAN WITH A LETTER DESIGNATION B'' AND ''C'' C17, AS SHOWN IN SAID CONDOMINIUM PLAN. PARCEL 4: AN EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT FOR PARKING PURPOSES OVER THAT PORTION SHOWN AND DESCRIBED IN SAID CONDOMINIUM PLAN AS P87 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $216,756.16 (estimated) Street address and other common designation of the real property: 1903 TEMPLE AVE #121 SIGNAL HILL, CA 90755 APN Number: 7216-021-062 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". In compliance with California Civil Code 2923.5(c) the mortgagee, trustee, beneficiary, or authorized agent declares: that it has contacted the borrower(s) to assess their financial situation and to explore options to avoid foreclosure; or that it has made efforts to contact the borrower(s) to assess their financial situation and to explore options to avoid foreclosure by one of the following methods: by telephone; by United States mail; either 1st class or certified; by overnight delivery; by personal delivery; by e-mail; by face to face meeting.

DATE: 03-26-2013 CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY, as Trustee ROSAURA ARMENTA, ASSISTANT SECRETARY California Reconveyance Company 9200 Oakdale Avenue Mail Stop: CA2-4379 Chatsworth, CA 91311 800-892-6902 CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. For Sales Information: www.lpsasap.com or 1-714-730-2727 www.priorityposting.com or 1-714-573-1965 www.auction.com or 1800-280-2832 NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, this information can be obtained from one of the following three companies: LPS Agency Sales & Posting at (714) 730-2727, or visit the Internet Web site www.lpsasap.com (Registration required to search for sale information) or Priority Posting & Publishing at (714) 573-1965 or visit the Internet Web site www.priorityposting.com (Click on the link for “Advanced Search” to search for sale information), or auction.com at 1-800-280-2832 or visit the Internet Web site www.auction.com, using the Trustee Sale No. shown above. Information about postponements that

PUBLIC NOTICES

are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site.

The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. P1029317 3/29, 4/5, 04/12/2013

TST4327 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE Trustee Sale No. 127040-11 Loan No. 0193798 Title Order No. 142773505 APN 7216-002-026 TRA No.: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 08/11/1998. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 04/19/2013 at 10:00AM, MORTGAGE LENDER SERVICES, INC. as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 08/20/1998 as Document No. 98 1478857 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, California, executed by: KURT VAUGHN AND WAYNE LEE, as Trustor, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash, a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona CA, all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California describing the land therein: SEE EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF Exhibit “A” A Condominium Comprised Of: Parcel 1: That portion of lot 1 of tract no.

33939, in The City Of Signal Hill, in The County Of Los Angeles, State Of California, as per map recorded in book 904 page 15 of maps, in the office of the County recorder of said County, shown and defined as unit 1 on that certain condominium plan for said tract (the “ condominium plan” herein) recorded on October 26, 1978 as instrument no. 78-1190217 official records, of said County, and referred to in that certain declaration of covenants, conditions, and restrictions, and easements for Villa Hermosa Vista (the “declaration” herein) recorded on October 10, 1978, as instrument no. 781124791 official records of said County, and Amended on October 16, 1978 as instrument no. 78-1147383 official records. Parcel 2: An undivided one-twenty-first interest in and to those portions of lot 1 of tract no.

33939, shown and defined as “common areas” (the “common area” herein) on the condominium plan and in the declaration. Except therefrom all crude oil, petroleum gas, brea, asphaltum and all kindred substances and other minerals under and in said land, as reserved

by Gerson B. Reynolds and Wanda K. Reynolds, husband and wife, in deed recorded October 14, 1977 as instrument no. 77-1137103 official records. Also except all right and interest in and to all oil, gas, minerals and subsurface material below a depth of 500 feet without right of surface entry as reserved by R. B. J. Development Company, a General Partnership, in deed, recorded May 24, 1979 as instrument no. 79-558917, official records. Parcel 3: A non exclusive easement for ingress, egress and support, over, across and through all of the common areas of the project, to the extent provided in article XXIII of the declaration and subject to the limitations set forth therein, which non exclusive easement shall be appurtenant to parcel 1 above and shall be for the benefit of grantee, his successors, assigns, guests, tenants, servants. licensees and invitees. The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 2621 EAST 20TH STREET UNIT 1, SIGNAL HILL, CA 90804. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $113,659.16 (Estimated). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. The Beneficiary may elect to bid less than the full credit bid. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder's office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (916) 939-0772 or visit this Internet Web site www.nationwideposting.com using the file number assigned to this case 127040-11. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

Date: 03/22/2013 MORTGAGE LENDER SERVICES, INC. 81 BLUE RAVINE ROAD, SUITE 100, FOLSOM, CA 95630 (916) 962-3453 Sale Information Line: (916) 939-0772 or www.nationwideposting.com. TARA CAMPBELL, TRUSTEE SALE OFFICER. MORTGAGE LENDER SERVICES, INC. MAY BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NPP0215088 To: SIGNAL TRIBUNE PUB: 03/29/2013, 04/05/2013, 04/12/2013

TST4323 Loan No.: FREEMAN RESS Order No.: 75035 A.P. NUMBER 7215-027-063 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE UNDER DEED OF TRUST YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED March 15, 2007, UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that on 04/12/2013, at 9:00 A.M. of said day, behind the fountain located in Civic Center

Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA, RESS Financial Corporation, a California corporation, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to the power of sale conferred in that certain Deed of Trust executed by MARKESE FREEMAN, an Unmarried Man recorded on 06/01/2007, in Book n/a of Official Records of LOS ANGELES County, at page n/a, Recorder’s Instrument No. 20071326299 , by reason of a breach or default in payment or performance of the obligations secured thereby, including that breach or default, Notice of which was recorded 12/10/2012 as Recorder’s Instrument No. 20121894739, in Book n/a, at page n/a, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, lawful money of the United States, evidenced by a Cashier’s Check drawn on a state or national bank, or the equivalent thereof drawn on any other financial institution specified in section 5102 of the California Financial Code, authorized to do business in the State of California, ALL PAYABLE AT THE TIME OF SALE, all right, title and interest held by it as Trustee, in that real property situated in said County and State, described as follows: Portion Lots 9 and 10, Block "P", per Book 9, pages 2 and 3, being also a portion of Parcels "A" and "B" per Certificate of Compliance recorded November 12, 2002, as Instrument No. 022721165. The street address or other common designation of the real property hereinabove described is purported to be: 2749 EAST 21ST STREET, SIGNAL HILL, CA 90755 . The undersigned disclaims all liability for any incorrectness in said street address or other common designation. Said sale will be made without warranty, express or implied regarding title, possession, or other encumbrances, to satisfy the unpaid obligations secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest and other sums as provided therein; plus advances, if any, thereunder and interest thereon; and plus fees, charges, and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of said obligations at the time of initial publication of this Notice is $113,749.67. In the event that the deed of trust described in this Notice of Trustee's Sale is secured by real property containing from one to four single-family residences, the following notices are provided pursuant to the provisions of Civil Code section 2924f: NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction.

You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder's office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee's sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 714-573-1965 or visit this Internet Web site www.priorityposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 75035. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not be immediately reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

Dated: 03/13/2013 RESS Financial Corporation a California corporation, as Trustee By: Bruce R. Beasley, President 1780 Town and Country Drive, Suite 105, Norco, CA 92860-3618 (SEAL) Tel.: (951) 270-0164 or (800)343-7377 FAX: (951)270-2673 Trustee’s Sale Information: (714) 573-1965 www.priorityposting.com P1027069 3/22, 3/29, 04/05/2013 TST4331 / 2013 050756 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: AEH PHOTOGRAPHY, 25735 Perlman Place Unit A, Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381. Registrant: ALEXIS EVE HARRINGTON, 25735 Perlman Place Unit A, Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Alexis Harrington. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on February 25, 2013. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 14, 2013.

TST4332 / 2013 058242 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: PACIFIC OFFICE MANAGEMENT, 5540 El Jardin St., Long Beach, CA 90815. Registrant: DONALD R. YANCY, 5540 El Jardin St., Long Beach, CA 90815. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Donald R. Yancy. The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 25, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 29, & April 5, 12, 19, 2013.

TST4333 / 2013 060078 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: BELLE'S GIFT SHOP, 6481 Atlantic Ave. #107, Long Beach, CA 90805. Registrant: DAVID ETHRIDGE, 6481 Atlantic Ave. #107, Long Beach, CA 90805. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: David Ethridge. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on March 15, 2013. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 26, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this

statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 29, & April 5, 12, 19, 2013.

TST4334 / 2013 060079 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: GK MEDIA, 2271 Grand Ave., Long Beach, CA 90815. Registrant: KRIS GRAGSON, 2271 Grand Ave., Long Beach, CA 90815 This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Kris Gragson. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 26, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 29, & April 5, 12, 19, 2013.

TST4336 / 2013 056822 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: DIMENSION 3 MINISTRY, 2418 Arthur MacArthur Road, San Pedro, CA 90731. Registrant: SHELIA LEWIS, 2418 Arthur MacArthur Road, San Pedro, CA 90731. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Shelia Lewis.

The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 21, 2013.

NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

Pub. The Signal Tribune: April 5, 12, 19, 26, 2013.

TST4337 / 2013 051891 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: SMILESENSATIONS, 11646 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064. Registrant: THE LEWIS GROUP ORGANIZATIONS, INC., 9025 Wilshire Blvd., Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90211. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Stephen Lewis, President. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on March 1, 2013.

This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 15, 2013.

NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: April 5, 12, 19, 26, 2013.

TST4335 / Case No. NP015334 Notice Of Petition To Administer Estate Of: IMA lEE GARNETT To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of IMA LEE GARNETT A Petition For Probate has been filed by MARIA HILL O'DWYER in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. The Petition For Probate requests that MARIA HILL O'DWYER, be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The Petition requests the decedent’s will codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. The Petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain and very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A Hearing on the petition will be held on April 18, 2013 at 1:30 PM in Dept. 4 located at 415 W. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802. If You Object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections, with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If Your Are A Creditor or a contingent creditor of the deceased, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within four months from the date of first issuance of letters as provided in Probate Code section 9100. The time for filing claims will not expire before four months from the hearing date noticed above.You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Petitioner: MARIA HILL O'DWYER, 1132 E. 16th St., LONG BEACH, CA 90813. Attorney for Petitioner: Elizabeth Vozzella, Esq., 3553-A Atlantic Ave. #187 Long Beach, CA 90807. Pub. Signal Tribune, March 29, & April 5, 12, 2013

APRIL 5, 2013

TST4317 / 2013 049167 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: CS PAUL, 627 Pine Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802.

Registrant: PAULA A. ELIAS, 627 Pine Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Paula A. Elias. The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 12, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 15, 22, 29, & April 5, 2013.

TST4314 / 2013 046278 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: 1. TOM AND JERI FLORIST, 2. CHRISTENSENS, 5353 Cherry Ave., Long Beach, CA 90805. Registrant: POPATIA CORPORATION, 9573 Cedar St., Bellflower, CA 90706. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Sheila Mamdani, President. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on July 11, 2012. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 8, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 15, 22, 29, & April 5, 2013.

TST4321 / 2013 040655 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: NAIL BEAUTY 4U, 10732 Arrowood St., Temple City, CA 91780. Registrant: KRISTY TRINH TRAN, 3849 Cypress Ave., El Monte, CA 91731. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Kristy Trinh Tran. The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on February 28, 2013.

NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 22, 29, & April 5, 12, 2013.

TST4322 / 2013 034182 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: BETTY SUE NIBBLES, 1405 E. 1st St., Apt. 7, Long Beach, CA 90802. Registrant: RACHEL CERDENIO, 1405 E. 1st St., Apt. 7, Long Beach, CA 90802. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.

Signed: Rachel Cerdenio. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on February 20, 2013. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on February 22, 2013.

NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 22, 29, & April 5, 12, 2013.

TST4324 / 2013 051657 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: RINCON CHICO CANTINA & GRILL, 2476 Santa Fe Ave., Long Beach, CA 90810. Registrant: MARIO L. MIRAMONTES, 3186 Locust Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Mario L. Miramontes. The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 14, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 22, 29, & April 5, 12, 2013.

TST4325 / 2013 054753 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: CENTURION JET, 5250 W. Century Blvd., Ste. 617, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Registrant: MICHAEL HENRIQUEZ, JR., 5112 Keynote Ave., Long Beach, CA 90808. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Michael Henriquez. The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on March 19, 2013. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 22, 29, & April 5, 12, 2013.

TST4320 / 2013 040703 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME The following person has abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: NAIL BEAUTY 4 U, located at 10919 Freer St., Temple City, CA 91780.

The fictitious business name referred to above was filed on February 9, 2010, original File No. 2013 040636, in the County of Los Angeles. Registrant: HUA PHUONG, 9746 E. Loftus Dr., Rosemead, CA 91770. This business is conducted by: an Individual. Signed: Hua Phuong. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on February 28, 2013. Pub. The Signal Tribune: March 22, 29, & April 5, 12, 2013.

ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:45 AM Page 13

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Robbery of person 4:15pm- 2300 block Long Beach Blvd.

Friday, March 29 Residential burglary 1:35pm– 600 block W. 36th St.

Commercial robbery 8:33pm– 4500 block Atlantic Ave.

Saturday, March 30 Assault 1am– 2000 block Lime Ave.

Assault 11:44pm– 3300 block Orange Ave. Sunday, March 31 Battery 3:50pm– 2400 block Linden Ave.

Tuesday, April 2 Residential burglary 9am– 3400 block Locust Ave.

Crimes reported by SHPD • Citywide

Thursday, March 28 Elder, dependent adult cruelty 9:12am– 3300 block Myrtle Ave.

Friday, March 29 DUI 1:46am– E. 29th St./Cherry Ave.

Stolen vehicle 3:38pm– 3300 block Atlantic Ave.

Stolen vehicle 6:14pm– 1300 block E. 28th St.

Sunday, March 31 DUI 12:35am– E. Pacific Coast Hwy./Ohio Ave.

Non-injury hit-and-run 3:39am– Hathaway Ave./Obispo Ave.

Monday, April 1 DUI 1:27am– Cherry Ave./E. Carson St. Suspect in custody

Stolen vehicle 8:12am– 2700 block E. Hill St.

Tuesday, April 2 Stolen vehicle 5:25pm– 3000 block California Ave.

Wednesday, April 3 Unauthorized use of ID to obtain credit, goods 12pm– 2600 block E. 19th St.

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NEWS

14 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

Wetlands

continued from page 5

would be able to grant the property owners exemptions, similar to the City’s action in approving a moratorium last year on payday-lending and title-loan companies, which involved “grandfathering” in two out of three applications. “[Property owners] are attempting to put forth a project that will conform with the current SEADIP, [and] that is going to fly in the face of any moratorium,” he said. “I can see it right now… it’s just going to be a big problem, because that’s what the property owners are banking on, that they can conform, and if it’s a blanket moratorium… I

Bikes

continued from page 3

don’t know where it’s going to go. It will probably end up as a legal argument.”

Murchison added that such a building moratorium may also hinder wetlands restoration efforts that may also require conditional-use permits. He said the City has sent out a request for proposals (RFP) on hiring a consultant team to take the lead in the update process, and the City has already received 10 applications. He said city staff is now expected to bring a consultant team forward to the City Council in April or May for approval to start the update process.

Sean Belk/Signal Tribune Long Beach planning staff was unable to be reached for A rabbit is seen amid foliage of the Los Cerritos Wetlands, comment before deadline. ß which serves as a habitat for various endangered and threatened species.

also moving forward with designs for four major bike-corridor projects, some of which will span from downtown to north Long Beach, entering into Wrigley, Bixby Knolls and Los Cerritos neighborhoods.

Signal Hill city staff is also recommending that the Sustainable City Committee discuss and determine methods to promote Bike Week LA, a week-long series of events, programs and giveaways organized by LA Metro as a campaign to promote biking while educating the public

Wrigley

continued from page 1

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APRIL 5, 2013

District City Councilmember Dee Andrews, was at the meeting. He told the audience that he and Pilon walked the streets and knocked on doors in the vicinity of the planned center recently. “We found overwhelming support for this project from the people who live or work in that area,” he said.

Colleen McDonald, Wrigley Neighborhood Association president, said she was glad that the City and MHA were expanding services offered to the homeless, but she was bothered by the fact that residents were given such a short notice of the impending council decision to purchase the property and develop the center on Long Beach Boulevard. “I wish we had been given more time to think about it,” she said.

Lee White, another Wrigley resident, noted that there were few places to park in the vicinity of the planned center. She asked, “How are you going to deal with that?”

Conway explained that the property already has 18 parking spaces.

Pilon added that if funding becomes available, he would like to convert the facility’s subterranean warehouse to parking spaces.

Former California Assemblymember Betty Karnette, also a Wrigley resident, was at the meet-

about bicycle safety.

Events this year include Fix Your Bike Day on May 13, the 10th Annual Blessing of the Bicycles on May 14, a guided tour of bike lanes on May 15, Bike to Work Day on May 16 and Bike Local Weekend from May 17–19.

According to its mission statement, the Signal Hill Sustainable City Committee is responsible for “striking a balance between economic growth, social responsibility and environmental well-being by partnering with [their] neighbors, businesses and the community to

provide a healthy and enduring environment for future generations.” The purpose of the committee, according to the statement, is to develop and recommend a “sustainability framework” to the Signal Hill City Council that promotes “environmentally sound and financially practical objectives.”

In 2013, the committee has a goal of building on the City’s Green City Certification by selecting new or additional goals for added sustainability, recycling and environmental benefits. The next meeting of the Sustainable City Committee will be May 28. ß

ing, and she strongly endorsed the plan to develop the new center. “I want to compliment the City and MHA,” she said. “We are doing something to help people who are in desperate need, and this is exactly what our society should be doing.”

During the meeting, Conway also briefly explained the process that resulted in the March 19 unanimous decision of the Long Beach City Council to acquire the property on Long Beach Boulevard and to partner with MHA in renovating the building, which formerly housed an export business.

Conway noted that for about seven years the City has been working toward obtaining ownership of the 4.73-acre, former U.S. Army Reserve Center known as Schroeder Hall, at the southeast corner of Willow Street and Grand Avenue. The City is able to get ownership of that site through the federal Base Realignment and Closure Act process. However, a prerequisite for ownership is compliance with a Housing and Urban Development requirement that local governments obtaining former military bases provide certain services to the homeless community.

Conway explained that the City hopes to move the East Long

Beach Police Substation to Schroeder Hall, but in order to do that the City must also develop a homeless-assistance service center somewhere in Long Beach.

“We’ve been looking citywide for a property appropriate for this purpose,” he said. “About three years ago the property at 1955-1965 Long Beach Blvd, was about to be listed for sale, and the City tried without success to reach a deal with the property owners. A few weeks ago we were advised that the new owners were preparing to sell it.”

At Conway’s recommendation, on March 19 the council approved the City purchase of the property for $2.8 million and authorized an additional expenditure of $1.2 million for improvements to the 28,000-square-foot building.

According to Conway, $2.2 million for the purchase and renovation will come out of the City’s General Fund and $1.8 million will come from the City’s Gas Fund.

Pilon said he expects the new center to open its doors by July 2015.

MHA, which is funded primarily through state tax revenues, will manage the center at no additional cost to the City for 10 years. At the end of that period, MHA will assume ownership of the property. ß­

CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION PLANNING COMMISSION PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that due to terms expiring on May 31, 2013, three vacancies each exist on the Signal Hill Civil Service, Planning, and Parks & Recreation Commissions. The City of Signal Hill will be conducting a recruitment to fill each vacancy. All interested residents are encouraged to apply.

To serve as a Civil Service, Planning, or Parks & Recreation Commissioner, you must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older; and a registered voter and resident of the City at least 29 days prior to the date of appointment. Each member shall continue to reside in the City for the duration of the term of office (Signal Hill City Charter Section 602).

If you are interested in serving as a Commissioner, please call (562) 989-7305 for an application. Applications are also available in the City Clerk’s office, 2175 Cherry Avenue, Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You may also apply on the City’s website at HYPERLINK "http://www.cityofsignalhill.org" www.cityofsignalhill.org. Applications must be accompanied by a letter of interest.

Applications will be accepted until Monday, April 15, 2013, at 5:30 p.m.

Published in the Signal Tribune on March 22 & 29, and April 5 & 12, 2013.

Nick Diamantides/Signal Tribune

David Pilon, executive director of the Los Angeles chapter of Mental Health America, seen at the podium, told the attendees at the April 1 Wrigley Association meeting that his organization goes out into the streets and homeless encampments to invite people to take advantage of their services. John Edmond, chief of staff for 6th District City Councilmember Dee Andrews, is seen left, and Michael Conway, City of Long Beach director of business and property development, is on the right.

ST3444 - April 5_Layout 1 4/5/13 10:46 AM Page 15

COMMUNITY

APRIL 5, 2013

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“Finding Balance,” acrylic and spraypaint

Among those raising objections is Los Cerritos resident John Deats, who lives at Pacific Avenue, 36th Street and Country Club Drive. The longtime resident said in a previous article in the Signal Tribune that a proposed roundabout at the intersection would remove about 150 feet of parking from the front of his home.

“I question [whether] it is worth the detriment of the quality of people’s lives, having parking stripped away from them,” he said.

Seventh District Long Beach City Councilmember James Johnson, however, said it was nearby residents who insisted that the roundabouts be added to the project to make the streets safer since the original proposal involved only adding bike lanes.

“The idea of roundabouts, from the community, was they felt it would help slow traffic from Pacific Avenue and decrease through traffic,” he said.

Johnson added that roundabouts and traffic circles would not only provide children with a safer street to ride bikes to nearby schools but would also encourage healthy activity and free up traffic on the road for drivers.

“We’re trying to improve mobility,” he said “The more people ride bikes, the more it increases quality of life for those residents… One of the largest groups of users of bikes is kids going to elementary school… We need to make sure they’re safe. And, the more people exercise, the more it’s good for health. It’s also good for traffic relief, because the more people get on bikes, the fewer cars we have.

And those people who do need to drive of course will have less traffic.”

Tweed added that, at this point, the amount of roundabouts and traffic circles being proposed is still “negotiable,” adding that residents still have time to provide input as the City is currently in the design phase and plans to come back to the community with final designs for the Pacific Avenue and Daisy Avenue projects this fall. He said construction of both projects wouldn’t begin until sometime next year.

“We’re still going round and round with [residents],” Tweed said. “… We’re pretty confident this will come forward, but there may be some changes to the initial concepts.”

City officials have also assured residents that the roundabouts and traffic circles proposed on Daisy Avenue would not impact the annual Daisy Avenue Christmas Tree Lane Parade, which has been a staple in the Wrigley neighborhood since 1953. Still, some residents said

they have concerns.

“I’m against it if it’s going to interfere with the parade,” said Maria Norvell, president of the Wrigley Area Neighborhood Alliance, Inc., which has organized the parade for decades. “I don’t want a lot of change. It’s the only parade that goes into the neighborhood.”

According to the latest conceptual designs by KOA Corporation, plans call for installing two roundabouts along the parade route, with one at Burnett Street and another at

28th Street along Daisy Avenue.

Tweed, however, said he has already put up cones during a pervious parade to indicate that the roundabouts wouldn’t impact the annual procession, adding that residents have already vetted the projects through a dozen community meetings.

“I’ve been to enough Wrigley meetings to know this should and will not impede the parade,” he said.

Johnson agreed that there would be no impact to the parade route. “You can take that to the bank,” he added. ß

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