St3724 november 13

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“Doodle Hotel Des Arts,” ink and color markers on paper

By Wayne Chan See page 10

Serving Bixby Knolls, California Heights, Los Cerritos, Wrigley and the City of Signal Hill

VOL. 37 NO. 24

Your Weekly Community Newspaper

November 13, 2015

Riverwalk development project wins Long Beach City Council support

Longbeach.gov

The Riverwalk Residential Development is designed for 131 homes to be built at Will J. Reid Scout Park, 4747 Daisy Ave. in Long Beach. The controversial project on the 11-acre site was approved in a first-reading vote by the Long Beach City Council on Nov. 10.

CJ Dablo Staff Writer

The Long Beach City Council passed the controversial Riverwalk Project, which aims to build 131 homes and a park over an 11-acre site in north Long Beach, on Tuesday night, Nov. 10.

In a first-reading vote, the city council voted 8-0 to pass several motions that would allow the development to move forward on the Will J. Reid Scout Park, located at 4747 Daisy Ave. Sixth District Councilmember Dee Andrews was absent from the meeting.

According to a staff report, the number of motions included: certification of a mitigation monitoring and reporting program for the subdivision; fee credits for the developer, who is expected to spend “about $1.65 million on traffic improvements”; a zoning change to allow a housing development on what is currently an area zoned for institutional use; and approval of a new ordinance that Amy Bodek, director of the Long Beach Development Services, said Tuesday is specific only to this particular project and does not affect any other development projects in the city.

The plan has some controversial points. Plans are for the 11-acre area to have two- and three-story homes in a gated community. There is only one main entrance and exit to the subdivision on Daisy Avenue, but there is an additional emergency access point on another street.

The developer, Integral Communities, has agreed to provide a number of upgrades to the surrounding area, including the promise to build Oregon Park on the corner of Oregon Avenue and Del Amo Boulevard and the expectation that they will make improvements to the sur-

rounding streets.

The Boy Scouts of America had previously owned the property. City leaders said Tuesday that it was not possible for the City to buy the private property nor claim it through eminent domain a few years ago when the City lost its own redevelopment agency after the program was dissolved by the State.

Passionate advocates on both sides of the issue packed into the City Council Chamber that night.

Joe Sopo, a realtor and neighborhood advocate, opposed the plan.

“The presentation was very nice,” Sopo told the council, “but it was like putting lipstick on a pig.” He criticized the proposal to include three-bedroom homes and the subdivision’s close proximity to the railroad. He also noted that the schools in the area, while he understood they were doing the best they could, did not rate very well. He said that possible homeowners with children would not want these kinds of properties.

Laurie Angel, who lives about a half mile from the development, objected to the subdivision too.

“Now, I don’t have a problem necessarily with density,” Angel said during the public-comment period. “The problem with the density of this project is where it’s located. There is no easy way in and out of that neighborhood.”

Another speaker, who declined to verify his name after the meeting, said that he lived near the development site. He said that when trees were cut down, cracks appeared around his home.

Other homeowners living nearby came to the defense

Taking care of business

BKBIA promoting importance of small business as hectic shopping season nears Cory Bilicko Managing Editor

As the temperatures descend and folks pull their sweaters off the shelves, at least for the chilly November mornings, a relaxed enjoyment of hot cocoa– sometimes in plain red cups– on the patios of local coffee shops becomes apparent. However, it’s a pleasure tinged with the yet unspoken, but mounting, pressure to prepare for the holidays.

Given his druthers, Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association Executive Director Blair Cohn would have local residents conducting most, if not all, of their gift-buying, dining, imbibing and services-seeking within the abundant, and ever increasing number, of shops, salons, food establishments and other businesses of the district he represents. He and his team are planning various ongoing programs and events to entice locals to spend their

see RIVERWALK page 14

Weekly Weather Forecast Friday

Bundts-giving

Cory Bilicko/Signal Tribune

A banner announces the coming of Lola’s Mexican Cuisine at 4140 Atlantic Ave. in Bixby Knolls, while the sign for the former business, Le Yen Chinese restaurant, is still standing. The Mexican restaurant has all its permits approved and will open on Jan. 25, according to Blair Cohn, executive director of the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association.

Sunny & warm

82°

Lo 50°

see BKBIA page 13 November 13 through November 17, 2015

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Plenty of sunshine

Plesnt with plenty of sun

Mostly sunny

Plenty of sunshine

Lo 50°

Lo 52°

Lo 51°

80°

77°

74°

73° Lo 51°

This week’s weather forecast sponsored by:

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COMMUNITY

Signal Tribune

November 13, 2015

High school diplomas still in reach for at-risk youth through LB charter school program Denny Cristales Editorial Assistant It’s never too late to go and get that high school diploma, and a charter-school program in Long Beach is seeking to make that a possibility.

Year-round, the Gateway Cities Charter School accepts students between the ages of 18 and 25 who have not earned high school diplomas.

“If you have some young person who wants to finish and get their high school diploma, this is the place to do it,” said Mike Bassett, executive director and CEO of the Conservation Corps of Long Beach and Gateway Cities Charter School.

“A young person without a diploma nowadays is in dire straits. Even McDonald’s requires a high school diploma.”

The Conservation Corps of Long Beach (CCLB) has been in operation since 1987. Gateway Cities Charter School was formed as a separate corporation from the CCLB for accountability purposes, Bassett said. However, the corporation had to remain affiliated with Long Beach in order to meet a statute of require-

ments from the State of California.

Gateway Cities Charter School has been in operation since July of last year.

Charter programs typically deal with at-risk youth who have mainly dropped out of high school or are unemployed. But the charter, by law, has to accept all applicants, and no matter what economic conditions people are in, they can enroll and get a high school diploma.

“It’s a good opportunity for them to take advantage of their back yard, per se,” said Megan Clark, executive assistant to the CEO of the CCLB. “They can grow and go on to further education instead of just accepting not having a high school diploma.

They can go forward and pursue other goals, and that’s what we want for all of our students.”

Gateway Cities Charter School operates on a “quarter versus semester” system. Students can register at any time during the year and opt for their preferred method of learning.

It’s a system that strays away from the “traditional” form of learning and identifies itself more along the lines of the college model.

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Year-round, the Gateway Cities Charter School accepts students between the ages of 18 and 25 who have not achieved high school diplomas.

successful with our young people,” Bassett said. “Our last graduation was 58 students, and we had 700 people at the graduation. That gives you some idea of the interest. A lot of these young people are the first ones in their families to graduate.”

An added benefit is that students enrolled in the school have priority listing with the CCLB’s Recycling and Work Projects crews.

Gateway Cities Charter School has also been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Schools that are rated well by WASC teams are typically given one full year of accreditation. Gateway Cities Charter School received three years.

“Oh, I think it’s wonderful,” said Larry Forester, CCLB board secretary and Gateway Cities Charter

School vice-chair of the board. “It’s a phenomenal advantage to have our own charter school because now we can go and take other students in that age bracket that have not gotten degrees and let them come in also.”

Gateway Cities Charter School is a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Students are not required to pay to see SCHOOL page 14

Event to highlight historically black colleges, universities Eighth District Councilmember Al Austin and Stepping in the Right Direction, a college tour group, will host a free college fair featuring historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) on Saturday, Nov. 14 from 1pm to 5pm in the Seaside Room at the Long Beach Convention Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

“The HBCU College Fair is a great place to learn about the college admission process and learn about some fantastic institutions of higher learning,” Austin said. “Last year’s fair was very successful at connect-

ing local students with college opportunities that they may not have previously been aware of.”

Representatives from over 55 colleges and universities are expected to be present to answer questions.

The event will also feature workshops on the SAT, financial aid, application personal-statement writing and scholarships.

“HBCUs are my passion, and I am so happy that Long Beach Councilmember Austin is working with Stepping in the Right Direction to coordinate the fair again this year,”

said Nicole Ford, executive director of Stepping in the Right Direction.

“He cares about the youth and understands how important higher education is.”

The event’s sponsors include McDonald’s, the City of Long Beach, Pacific Gateway, the Port of Long Beach and Southern California Edison.

Parking is $5 for college fair attendees. For more information, call (562) 570-6685 or email district8@ longbeach.gov .

Source: Austin’s office

NEWS

November 13, 2015 Crimes reported by the LBPD Council districts 6, 7 & 8 (no arrest information supplied)

9:44pm Robbery– commercial Chestnut Ave./W. PCH 10:17pm Non-injury hit-and-run W. Willow St./Pacific Ave.

Thursday, Nov. 5 12:40am Non-injury hit-and-run 2400 block Magnolia Ave.

Sunday, Nov. 8 3:32pm Non-injury hit-and-run 400 block W. 23rd St.

11am Grand theft– motor vehicle 1800 block Pine Ave. 12:17pm Non-injury hit-and-run 3900 block Atlantic Ave. 2:44pm Grand theft– property 2:48pm Two residential burglaries 2200 block Cedar Ave. 4:06pm Injury hit-and-run E. Del Amo Bl./Cherry Ave.

11:40pm Assault– not firearm 1100 block E. San Antonio Dr. Friday, Nov. 6 12:05am DUI Freeland St./Linden Ave. (suspect taken into custody)

6pm Auto burglary 1300 block E. Hill St.

9:12am Non-injury hit-and-run Long Beach Blvd./E. 45th St.

7:06pm Auto burglary E. Hill St./Orange Ave.

2:02pm Residential burglary 1900 block Long Beach blvd.

Friday, Nov. 6 12:30pm Unauthorized use of ID–obtain credit/goods 2600 block Cherry Ave.

7:34pm Non-injury hit-and-run Cherry Ave./E. PCH

Monday, Nov. 9 4:31am Auto burglary 2100 block E. PCH

11:23pm Auto burglary 1100 block E. PCH

N O

6:58am Residential burglary 3400 block Pacific Pl.

6:06am Residential burglary E. San Antonio Dr./Orange Ave.

7:55am Auto burglary 4800 block Atlantic Ave.

11:33am Battery 4800 block Atlantic Ave.

7:59am Assault– not firearm 100 block W. Willow St.

11:45am Residential burglary 3700 block Magnolia Ave.

3:03pm Battery 1800 block Chestnut Ave.

8:36pm Battery Pacific Ave./W. PCH Crimes reported by SHPD Citywide

2:34am Battery E. 20th St./Atlantic Ave.

Tuesday, Nov. 10 1:40am Battery 2100 block Elm Ave.

8:17am Residential burglary 2800 block E. PCH

7:05am Residential burglary 900 block E. 45th St.

Thursday, Nov. 5 7am Vandalism– deface property 700 block E. 28th St. (two suspects identified) 7:26pm Garage burglary 1400 block E. Willow St.

10:08am Battery 3800 block California Ave. 10:51am Residential burglary 3400 block Gaviota Ave.

3:49am Stolen vehicle recovered Creston Ave./Walnut Ave. 3:47pm Grand theft– motor vehicle 2000 block St. Louis Ave. 10:30pm DUI Temple Ave./E. 19th St. (suspect taken into custody) Sunday, Nov. 8 2:49pm Battery 1600 block E. Spring St. (two suspects identified) 6:01pm Robbery– person 3300 block E. PCH

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Saturday, Nov. 7 11:57am Grand theft – property 1100 block E. 46th St. 1:55pm Robbery– person 2500 block Orange Ave. 7pm Auto burglary 2100 block Chestnut Ave.

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7:06pm Stolen vehicle recovered Daisy Ave./W. 20th St.

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7:28pm Residential burglary Olive Ave./E. PCH

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7:33pm Injury hit-and-run E. Spring St./Cherry Ave.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 7:13am Assault– not firearm 2700 block E. PCH (two suspects identified)

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2:58pm Stolen vehicle recovered Freeman Ave./E. PCH

Saturday, Nov. 7 12:45am Indecent exposure 3500 block E. PCH

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10pm Grand theft– motor vehicle 1800 block Cherry Ave.

Monday, Nov. 9 2:10am Robbery– person 2600 block Lime Ave. (suspect taken into custody)

Tuesday, Nov. 10 8am Auto burglary 1900 block Temple Ave.

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6:39pm Residential burglary 3600 block Cerritos Ave.

6:15pm Arson – causing fire of inhabited structure 2000 block E. 19th St.

6:51pm Battery– Spouse, cohabitant, date 1500 block E. 23rd St. (suspect identified)

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4:38pm Non-injury hit-and-run 2200 block Linden Ave.

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12:55pm Unauthorized use of ID–obtain credit/goods 1800 block Obispo Ave.

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6:38am & 11:57am Two residential burglaries 4500 block Pasadena Ave.

Wednesday, Nov. 11 3:29am Auto burglary 3500 block Atlantic Ave.

9:53pm Robbery– person W. Willow St./Pacific Ave.

12:42am Non-injury hit-and-run 100 block E. 31st St.

7:46am Auto burglary 3600 block Elm Ave.

6:59pm Grand theft– property 3400 block Long Beach Blvd.

E Y E

5:19pm Residential burglary 3600 block Orange Ave.

Signal Tribune

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3:23pm Auto burglary 2100 block E. 21st St. 5:24pm Auto burglary 2000 block Junipero Ave. 6:59pm Bring drugs into prison 700 block E. Spring St. (suspect taken into custody) 11pm Grand theft– $950 or less 900 block E. 33rd St. (two juvenile subjects taken into custody)

LIVES LIVED

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Daniel Brosamle 70 Michelle Hinmon 66 Martha Villanueva 65 Bettie Roubanis 79 Herminia Bustillos 75 Henry di Girolamo 90 Michelle Dimas-Byse 66 Gloria Lyons 64 Jorge Flores Rios 53 Donald Bacon 52 Gwendolyn Sweezey 73 Robert Hicks 72 Diane Stone 81 Shawn Petite 35 John Ball Jr 61 Vesta Sanders 91

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The families were assisted by McKenzie Mortuary. For more details on service dates and times, contact (562) 961-9301.

Support local businesses, SHOP & DINE

near your home!

-A reminder from the Signal Tribune

4

Signal Tribune

Thoughts from the

Publisher

by Neena Strichart

It doesn’t take much to make me laugh. I am a very easy audience for even the worst comic. My sense of humor was born early in life; I no doubt picked it up from watching so many repeat episodes of television’s situation comedies such as The Andy Griffith Show, I Love Lucy and The Dick Van Dyke Show.

Another one of my early influences was my father. When I was a youngster, I thought my dad was the funniest man on Earth. He could say something that I deemed comical, and I would come down with what seemed like neverending hiccups. All the whoopla usually got out of hand with one joke after another. My mother would get nervous and insist that we “simmer down.” After all, once I got started kidding around, I didn’t know when to quit, and after a good while of fun and laughter, my father would be ready to stop all the silliness and move on with his day.

As a grown woman, I still find some television shows, especially ones that have been in syndication for years, to be hiccup-worthy. One of my favorite programs these days is The New Adventures of Old Christine, featuring Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the title character. The program aired its final show in May of 2010.

What I consider to be one of the funniest parts of any of the episodes was when old Christine is riding in a car and singing along with the radio. The song playing is “The Night That the Lights Went out in Georgia.”

The correct lyrics to one of the parts of the song are “that’s the night that they hung an innocent man.” Incorrectly, Christine very confidently sings “that’s the night that they hung an immigrant ham.” A few moments later, Christine once again misses the real lyrics. What should have come out as “a big-bellied sheriff grabbed his gun and said ‘why’d you do it?”, our misinformed Christine croons “a pig-bellied sheriff grabbed his gum and said ‘why’d you chew it?’”

The first time I heard her belt out those words, I was right back to my youthful standard of laughter-induced hiccups.

Now, as a woman more than 50 years of age, I have added tears and a touch of incontinence to that level of hilarity. Although I have no problem writing about the situation, I still can’t talk about it without nearly laughing myself into a stupor.

Wondering what lyrics are often botched by real people (the situation is called mondegreens and is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as “a misunderstood or misinterpreted word or phrase resulting from a mishearing of the lyrics of a song”), I did a bit of an online search and found some pretty funny examples on the website amiright.com . Enjoy.

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA Original lyrics: Feel the beat from the tambourine, oh yeah Misheard lyrics: Feel the beat from the tangerine, oh yeah “Penny Lane” by The Beatles Original lyrics: Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes There beneath the blue suburban skies, I sit and meanwhile back Misheard lyrics: And Elaine is in my ears and in my eyes.

Troll beneath the blue suburban skies I sit there, three wild ducks

OPINION

November 13, 2015 COMMENTARY

Smoking cessation and lung-cancer screenings together save lives

By Debbie Oates, RN, ANP-BC, MSN Lung Nodule Center, MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute, Long Beach Memorial

It has been estimated that active smoking is responsible for close to 90 percent of lung cancer cases. Smoking is the most important risk factor for lung cancer that can be modified.

The risk you have accumulated from smoking never disappears. However, quitting will help decrease your risk.

After being smoke-free for 10 years, you’re half as likely to die from lung cancer, according to the American Heart Association.

How much risk you have depends on several factors, such as how many years you smoked, how many cigarettes you smoked per day and what age you started to smoke. It’s important to remember that there are many benefits to quitting smoking that are just as important as decreasing your risk from dying of lung cancer.

Smoking is by far the strongest risk factor for developing lung cancer. Other risk factors can be: • hereditary factors (i.e., having a close relative who has had lung cancer) • occupational or domestic exposures to carcinogens, such as asbestos or radon

contribute to risk • the presence of lung problems, such as COPD or interstitial lung disease • exposure to second-hand smoke Lung cancer is often found late and in an advanced stage, making it harder than other cancers to treat. As a result, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among both men and women in the U.S. That statistic is changing with the development of a lung cancer screening.

The screening for lung cancer was developed as a result of the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NLST), which was sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. NLST demonstrated that an annual screening with low-dose CT scanning under the guidance of a dedicated comprehensive lung cancer screening program resulted in a 20-percent decrease in deaths related to lung cancer– equivalent to saving one in five lives.

Using a type of CT scan known as low-dose CT, physicians can view detailed pictures of the chest to help find abnormalities in the lungs that a normal

X-ray can’t. A low-dose CT uses lower amounts of radiation than a standard chest CT. A lung cancer screening is recommended if you: • are between 55 and 80 years old • are currently a smoker or have quit within the past 15 years • have smoked at least a pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years (or the equivalent) It’s never too late to quit smoking and reduce your risk for lung cancer.

If you think you’re at risk, talk to your physician about a lung cancer screening.

The MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute at Long Beach Memorial offers a comprehensive Lung Cancer Screening Program to detect lung cancer early, at the most curable stage, as well as a Freedom from Smoking Program to help tobacco users gain control over their behavior and quit smoking.

For more information, call 800-MEMORIAL or visit MemorialCare.org/ LungNoduleCenter .

L E T T E R S , E M AI L S AND WE BS I T E CO MME N T S Save money, live better?

Yes, “Fresh and Easy begins closing stores” and Sears, J.C., Penny’s and many more of our old and trusted friends are struggling to survive in this world of Walmart and others like them. [“As Fresh & Easy begins closing stores, employees and customers rethink future plans,” Oct. 30, 2015.] We could ask why, but then we could ask how a loaf of bread that cost five cents when you were a kid now costs over a dollar, as well.

Money is power, and Walmart has the money and the power that goes with it. Why? Well, you can thank the ingenuity of the Walmart family who realized that if you give the people a taste of honey– meaning a cost break for some items people want and need– they will come back and buy the other things that they are making more money on. Pay the staff minimum wages, to offset the few cents they are losing for the items they discount, and now you have the picture of how to get rich without even trying.

I remember, many moons ago, when some genius decided that if you drop the price of an item to $1.98 instead of $2 “they will come” and, sure enough, they came and the trend was started.

It’s going to take a lot of doing to undo the Walmart fiasco, but I believe that the day will come when someone will think of a way to beat the “$1.98” come-on and maybe give back to the American people the old American way of fairness to the people who buy and those who work to earn a living wage. (Just don’t hold your breath.)

Vivian C. Nelson Long Beach

‘Bike-friendly’ vs. ‘bike-safe’

“Little Red Corvette” by Prince Original lyrics: Little Red Corvette Misheard lyrics: Pay the rent collect

When will Long Beach stop its misguided effort to make Long Beach the “The Most Bicycle Friendly City in America”?

Bikes sharing the road with multi-ton vehicles may be a currently popular idea, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. If you look around, clearly it isn’t working. Most of our current bike paths, at least those on public streets, are rarely used. And thankfully so.

Boston went down this same path, and in the last five years, at least 13 cyclists have been killed in collisions with motor vehicles. As popular columnist Jeff Jacoby wrote this past September: “Busy thoroughfares aren’t meant for cyclists. They are meant for the cars, trucks and buses that transport the vast majority of people moving through the nation’s cities.” He calls adding bicycles to the mix “irresponsible and dangerous.”

It’s especially irresponsible and dangerous to add yet another traffic signal on Wardlow Road at Pacific Avenue as part of a new bike path, but that didn’t stop the [Long Beach] City Council from voting to do it this past Nov. 3.

That will make four traffic signals and the Blue Line crossing gates in less than one-half mile between Long Beach Boulevard and Magnolia Avenue. Already eastbound traffic backs up to the top of the bridge over the LA River, and westbound traffic to the San Diego Freeway overpass during peak traffic periods when Blue Line trains are also running at peak frequency and gates lower every few minutes.

This leads to emergency vehicles having to wait for crossing gates to rise and traffic to clear when trying to reach the numerous health-care and senior residential facilities within a two-block stretch of Wardlow.

At this week’s Council meeting, our 7th District Councilmember Roberto Uranga made it very clear that he wants residential development on the nearby oil operators’ property. That would likely mean yet another traffic signal on Wardlow. Long Beach is making it impossible to get out of our homes in Wrigley Heights, which has only one entrance/exit. Worse yet, it is endangering people’s lives with its effort to be so bike-friendly.

Richard Gutmann Long Beach

Let us know if you have any favorite mondegreens that you would like to share with our readers.

Awareness through art

“Jack And Diane” by John Cougar Original lyrics: A little ditty ‘bout Jack and Diane Two American kids growing up in the heart land Misheard lyrics: A little ditty ‘bout Jack and Diane Two unremarkable kids growing up in a hot land

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Neena R. Strichart

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Signal_logo_blk.qxp_Layout 1 4/13/15 12:52 PM Page 1

Stephen M. Strichart

STAFF WRITER

Cory Bilicko

DESIGN/PRODUCTION MANAGERS

Cierra Hoaglin Amy Patton

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

CJ Dablo

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Denny Cristales

CULTURE WRITERS

Vicki Paris Goodman

MANAGING EDITOR

Heidi Nye

Barbie Ellisen Katherine Green

COLUMNISTS

Mark McCormick

Shoshanah Siegel

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. Letters must be 400 words or less. The Signal Tribune will publish no more than one “pro” letter and one “con” letter on a particular topic in a single issue. 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 p­ ublications 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 $50.

939 E. 27th St., Signal Hill, CA 90755 (562) 595-7900 www.signaltribune.com | newspaper@signaltribune.com

=Thank you so much for your article; it has proven to be invaluable to our show [“International art show to highlight problem of human trafficking, other humanitarian issues,” Nov. 6, 2015].

Here [are] some photos of the reception. It was a success.

We also had three organizations that came to the show: Long Beach Human Trafficking Task Force, Congo Justice (Nevada) and Yuli’s Paradise (Whittier, Calif.). They brought literature and all sorts of info. They each gave a brief speech to raise awareness about what’s going on in their own back yard, and lastly we showed a video about trafficking.

Thank you again!

Alejandra Menduina Schneider AMS Dealings in Art Curator

Courtesy Alejandra Menduina Schneider

The opening reception at Hellada Gallery, 117 Linden Ave., for the “Art for Non-Violence” show on Nov. 7

COMMUNITY

November 13, 2015

Dancing gala event to raise funds for cancer program at Long Beach Memorial The 8th Annual Dancing for Our Stars Gala will take place Saturday, Jan. 23 at the Long Beach Arena’s Pacific Ballroom in order to help raise funds for the Integrative Cancer Medicine Program at the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute (TCI) at Long Beach Memorial.

Based on the television series Dancing with the Stars, the event pairs six community members with professional dancers, or their significant others, to compete in a dance competition for the cause.

The gala raises funds by collecting votes from the crowd.

“I am thankful to the Memorial Medical Center Foundation and the hospital administration for making an investment into the future of cancer care,” said Nilesh Vora, Long Beach Memorial physician.

Vora is one of five dancers already scheduled to participate in this year’s event.

“My wife and I are excited to be a part of the Dancing for Our Stars cast this year to raise funds to contribute to this great cause,” Vora said.

The confirmed participants include Vora and his wife, Pinal Vora; Hilda Sanchez and Dave Rigby; Cindy and Randy Allen; and Debra Greco and Paul Velasco.

Pre-event fundraising, event-night fundraising and judges’ scores will be factors in crowning the overall winner. Once the winner is announced, all attendees will be invited to the dance floor.

This event is open to the public. For sponsorship information or tickets, call (562) 933-1661 or visit MemorialCare.org/DancingForOurStars .

Source: Long Beach Memorial

Walk to benefit Easter Seals Southern California The 2015 “Walk With Me” event to benefit Easter Seals Southern California and local individuals living with disabilities or special needs will take place Saturday, Nov. 14 at Shoreline Aquatic Park in Long Beach.

Participants may walk, run or stroll alongside the water during the event, which will start at 8:30am with a 7am registration.

Cost of registration is $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the event, and it includes a commemorative “Walk With Me” T-shirt and medal. Children 12 and under may walk for free.

For more information, contact event director Linda Glasco at (714) 834-1111 ext. 221 or linda.glasco@ essc.org, or visit walkwithme.org/

Artemis was named for the Greek goddess of the wilderness, animals and nature. Shelter staff feels that this one-year-old Staffie is well named, as she’s energetic and would be a great companion on nature hikes. Artemis was a surrender because her owners lost their home, and she’d love to be the goddess gracing your hearth. Meet her on the shelter side of the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID# A560390.

Signal_logo_blk.qxp_Layout 1 4/13/15 12:52 PM Page 1

socal .

Source: Easter Seals

Nov 7 Dec 5

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Signal Tribune

5

AROUND TOWN ‘TIS ALMOST THE SEASON What Open-house gift shop Who Hosted by the Community Hospital Long Beach Foundation When Friday, Nov. 13 from 10am to 7pm, and Saturday, Nov. 14 from 9am to 3pm Where Community Hospital Long Beach, 1720 Termino Ave. More Info Gift items will include holiday items, presents for family and friends, ornaments, gift wrap, stocking stuffers and more. Call (562) 498-1000 ext.

3224.

NOW HEAR THIS What Hearing technology demo Who Presented by the Hearing Loss Association of America When Friday, Nov. 13 from 10am to noon Where Weingart Center, 5220 Oliva Ave. More Info New technologies are available at a handson event that will feature hearing-aid equipment and other tools. Call (562) 630-6141 or visit hlalongbeachlakewood.org .

WHO? WHAT? WHEN? WHERE? WHY? What Alumni reunion Who Long Beach City College journalism alumni When Friday, Nov. 13 from 5pm to 9pm Where Long Beach City College, 4901 E. Carson St., in the Liberal Arts campus structure, room T1200 More Info Alumni from any Long Beach City College journalism classes in its 88-year history are invited to the reunion. The LBCC Foundation is sponsoring the event that will include recognition of historic accomplishments of City magazine, which debuted in 1979 and the Viking newspaper, which started when the college opened on the campus of Wilson High School in 1927. Light refreshments will be served.

RSVP to current Viking adviser Patrick McKean at pmckean@lbcc.edu or call (562) 938-4282.

BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT What Annual walk fundraiser event Who O2Breathe walk nonprofit organization When Saturday, Nov. 14 from 9am to 1pm Where El Dorado Park, 7550 E. Spring Street More Info The event will help fundraise for pulmonary hypertension, a rare and terminal disease affecting the blood vessels of the heart and lungs. There will be food booths and music. Teams raise money from pledged donations. All participants who raise $100 will get a T-shirt. The Walk route is approximately 3.1 miles, or 5K. A shorter route is available, and participation in the walking part of the event is not required. Register at O2Breathe.org/lb .

WALK THE WALK What Monthly walking tours Who Hosted by Long Beach Heritage When Saturday, Nov. 14 from 10am to noon; Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9am to 11:30am; Saturday, Nov. 28 at 9:30am Where Nov. 14: Meet at Ocean and Linden Avenues; Nov. 21: Meet at WPA Mural, 3rd and Promenade; Nov. 28: Meet at Bembridge House, 953 Park Circle More Info Long Beach Heritage provides walking tours monthly for those who wish to attend. The cost is $10, and $15 for the Bembridge House tour. Visit lbheritage.org .

SHOP TILL YOU DROP What Holiday pop-up shop Who Rancho Los Alamitos Foundation When Saturday, Nov. 14 from 1pm to 5pm Where Rancho Los Alamitos Gift Shop, 6400 Bixby Hill Rd. More Info In addition to gift shop items, there will be local artisans and craftsmen presenting jewelry, glass products, specialty foods, candles, home décor and more. Email info@RanchoLosAlamitos.org or call (562) 431-3541.

FA-LA-LAAAAA What LA Opera presentation Who Hosted by the El Dorado Neighborhood Library When Saturday, Nov. 14 at 2pm Where 2900 Studebaker Rd. More Info An LA Opera community educator will present a multimedia program about the opera Norma. The presentation is free. Light refreshments will be served, and a free opera-related gift will be given out at the end of the presentation. Call (562) 570-7500 or visit lbpl.org .

WRITE RIGHT What Discussion of “Pain and Survival in Memoir” Who California Writers Club of Long Beach When Saturday, Nov. 15 from 2pm to 5pm Where Long Beach Los Altos Library, 5614 E. Britton Dr. More Info Speaker Amy Friedman is an author and creative-writing teacher who will discuss crafting a memoir that writers are afraid, but destined, to write.

Eminfo@calwriterslongbeach.org .

SPOKES-PEOPLE What “Canned food drive” bike ride Who Presented by the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association When Sunday, Nov. 15 at 1pm Where Ride begins at Georgie’s Place, 3850 Atlantic Ave. More Info Canned food donations will be collected for the Long Beach Rescue Mission. Kids and adults of all ages are welcome for the bike ride. Email info@ bixbyknollsinfo.com .

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? What Monthly meeting Who Questing Heirs Genealogical Society When Sunday, Nov. 15 at 1pm Where Lakewood Masonic Center, 5918 Parkcrest St. More Info The group meets with the purpose of collecting, preserving and publishing data relating to genealogy, and it hosts its monthly meetings on the third Sunday of every month. Contact qhgs.info or Shareholder Liz Myers at (562) 598-3027.

FOR THE TOTS What 16th annual toy drive Who Hosted by Great Officiants When Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 10am to 8pm Where Great Officiants’ new office and wedding chapel, 3740 Atlantic Ave, Suite no. 201 More Info All toys will be donated to For the Child, Whose mission is to build healthier lives for children and families. Bring an unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more. Call (562) 435-4000.

MOVE IT OR LOSE IT! What Free Zumba classes Who Hosted by 6th District Councilmember Dee Andrews When Saturday, Nov. 14 and 21; Dec. 5, 12 and 19; and Jan. 9 and 23 from 11am to noon and 12:15pm to 1:15pm Where Ernest S. McBride Park Gym, 1550 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. More Info The cardio class uses a mix of Latin and international music. The event is free and open to the public. Call (562) 570-6816.=

DOLLARS AND SENSE What Community input on minimum-wage study Who The City of Long Beach When Tuesday, Nov. 17 at noon; Friday, Nov. 20 at 4pm; Tuesday, Nov. 24 at 6:30pm Where Admiral Kidd Park, 2125 Santa Fe Ave.; Bay Shore Library, 195 Bay Shore Ave.; City Council Chambers, 333 W. Ocean Blvd. (on respective dates) More Info The City is hosting a series of meetings to receive input on a minimum-wage study in Long Beach, as approved by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation.

A SMART START What HBCU College Fair Who College tour organization Stepping in the Right Direction When Saturday, Nov. 14 from 1pm to 5pm Where Long Beach Convention Center, Seaside Room, 300 E. Ocean Blvd.

More Info The event will teach attendees about historically black colleges and universities, offer advice from HBCU representatives and offer workshops in SAT prep, personal statement writing, financial aid and scholarships. All are welcome. Email nicole@ steppingintherightdirection.com or call (626) 6767309.

ADVANCEMENTS’ ANNIVERSARY What 75th anniversary celebration Who The Long Beach NAACP, presented by Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia and 6th District Councilmember Dee Andrews When Tuesday, Nov. 17 at 5pm Where 333 W. Ocean Blvd., 14th floor More Info The NAACP will be recognized at a Long Beach City Council meeting, where a display of pictures and archives of the NAACP organization will be on display. Call (562) 570-6816 or visit longbeach. gov/district6 .

6

NEWS

Signal Tribune

November 13, 2015

Lowenthal introduces bill to dramatically USPS to host public meeting regarding post office relocation reduce plastic trash nationwide United States Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) last week introduced the Trash Reduction Act of 2015 which would take steps to dramatically reduce plastic trash nationwide.

The United States uses approximately 100 billion plastic bags each year, and the vast majority of these wind up in landfills or as loose trash on land and water, according to Lowenthal’s office.

“Americans for the most part all agree that a clean environment is better for us as individuals and better not just for our children, but for all future generations,” Lowenthal said. “Being sustainable today is an investment in a cleaner and healthier tomorrow.”

Lowenthal’s office reports that studies have consistently shown that the best solution to excessive plastic

bag trash is to place a nominal fee on single-use carryout bags. Local governments in both the United States and around the world have enacted per-bag charges that have resulted in 60- to 90-percent reductions in the number of bags used.

The bill would keep thousands of tons of plastic pollution out of our water, land and landfills each year, according to Lowenthal’s office. To date, 210 municipalities in the United States, spanning 17 states plus the District of Columbia, have adopted carryout bag ordinances.

“I’m proud of the fact that cities in my district and throughout California have led the way on dealing with plastic bag pollution, but it is time for us to take action at a national level,” Lowenthal said. “Plastic pollution is one of the most visible environmental impacts of our

91-year-old man riding motorized scooter injured in traffic collision

An elderly man riding a scooter was seriously injured in a traffic collision in Signal Hill this week.

On Wednesday, Nov. 11, at approximately 1:30pm, Signal Hill Police Department officers were dispatched to the intersection of Temple Avenue and Willow Street regarding a traffic collision.

Upon arrival, officers found that a white truck had collided with a person on a motorized scooter in the southbound lane of Temple Avenue, just south of Willow Street.

The 91-year-old male resident of Long Beach who was on the motorized scooter sustained major injuries and was transported to the Long Beach Memorial Hospital.

The investigation into the cause of the accident stillyour ongoing.

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The United States Postal Service (USPS) is proposing the relocation of the post office presently located at 2300 Redondo Ave. to a yet-to-bedetermined location as close as reasonably possible to the current site, according to USPS officials.

“This relocation project would provide full continuity of service and would consist of procuring a suitable alternate location, preparing the new location for use as a post office and then transitioning services to the new facility,” reads a press release from the postal service. “All retail service would remain at 2300 Redondo Ave. until a new post office facility is up and running. Post-office box numbers and the ZIP code would remain the same.”

If the relocation moves forward, USPS anticipates selling the facility formerly known as the Long Beach Processing & Distribution Center that is located at 2300 Redondo Ave.

consumer age. All Americans can reap the same benefits that California has: less plastic pollution and a higher quality of life.”

The Congressmember’s bill would: place a minimum $0.10 fee on each bag provided by retailers to carry out groceries and other purchased items; permit retailers to retain $0.04 per bag if they have a qualifying recycling program; allow limited reusable bag giveaways for promotional reasons; and transfer funds raised by the fee to the Land and Water Conservation Fund to support projects that protect and conserve the environment.

Co-sponsors of the bill include Representatives Don Beyer (VA08), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Sam Farr (CA-20), Barbara Lee (CA-13), and Ted Lieu (CA-33).

Source: Lowenthal’s offic

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Source: USPS

Juvenile arrested for shooting death of 26-year-old Long Beach man A 17-year-old has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of a Long Beach man.

On Tuesday, Nov. 10, around 9pm, Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) officers were dispatched to the area of 14th Street and Gundry Avenue regarding a shooting call.

Arriving officers located a victim who had sustained a gunshot injury lying in the street. Long Beach Fire personnel transported him to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries a short time later. The victim has been identified as 26-year-old Jeffrey Keo of Long Beach. He was not a gang member, according to police.

While officers were conducting their initial investigation at the scene, they located a possible suspect, which led to a foot pursuit. Officers established a perimeter in an attempt to contain the fleeing suspect. At approximately 10:30pm, a SWAT team was activated to assist with the operation, including search of a residence. The search for the suspect concluded around 6am., however,

the suspect was not located in the residence.

Several individuals, including one who was later identified as the suspect, were detained and transported to the police headquarters to be interviewed. At the conclusion of the interviews, a 17-year-old resident of Long Beach was booked for murder and a gang enhancement.

The suspect’s identity is not being released because he is a juvenile.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a confrontation between the suspect and the victim occurred prior to the shooting.

The investigation remains ongoing. Those with information regarding the incident are asked to contact Long Beach Police Homicide Detectives Scott Lasch, Michael Hubbard and Teryl Hubert at (562) 570-7244. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), text TIPLA plus the tip to 274637 (CRIMES) or visit LACrimeStoppers.org .

Source: LBPD

19-year-old killed in possibly gang-related shooting body. Long Beach Fire Department paramedics responded and determined him deceased at the scene.

He has been identified as Jason Beaulieu of Long Beach.

A motive for the shooting is unknown, and the incident is being investigated as possibly gang-related.

No suspect information is available.

Those with information are asked

A 19-year-old Long Beach man is dead after a shooting in the 1200 block of E. 52nd St., according to the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD).

On Monday, Nov. 9, at approximately 11pm, Long Beach officers responded to a “shots fired” call and discovered the victim on the ground with a gunshot wound to his upper

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In undertaking this project, USPS will complete a process set forth in Title 39 Code of Federal Regulations 241.4, which provides for notification to elected officials and the local community and solicits public input from them, according to the USPS. The postal service will host a public meeting to discuss the proposal with customers and receive comments on Tuesday, Nov. 24, in the post office lobby at 2300 Redondo Ave. Postal service officials will be present from 10am to noon to meet with interested parties.

Comments will also be accepted by mail through Dec. 24, 2015. Written comments may be submitted to: Attn: Dean Cameron U.S. Postal Service 1300 Evans Ave. Ste. 200 San Francisco CA 94188-8200

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Source: LBPD

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COMMUNITY

November 13, 2015

CA attorney general issues consumer alert on ‘pension poaching’ scams targeting veteran seniors, their families

California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris issued a consumer alert to Californians Tuesday regarding scams targeting seniors who served in the military and their survivors. The scams have been reported to the California Department of Justice’s Public Inquiry Unit.

“California’s veterans have made extraordinary sacrifices to keep our nation safe and uphold our most sacred values and freedoms,” Harris said. “Sadly, many of our senior veterans are being targeted by scam artists seeking to take advantage of them for a quick profit. My office will continue to protect our veterans and ensure that predators who seek to profit from their service are held accountable.”

These reported “pension poaching” scams prey on veterans and target the financial assistance offered through the Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Program, which provides pension benefits to financially disadvantaged wartime veterans and their survivors over 65 years of age.

Specifically, pension poaching scams involve unscrupulous insurance agents and their representatives posing as unpaid volunteers or accredited VA representatives who offer to help seniors apply for VA pension benefits, according to Harris’s office. These insurance agents and their representatives lure seniors into buying an annuity or setting up an irrevocable trust to create a false appearance of financial hardship by attempting to conceal the senior’s assets.

Insurance agents and their representatives charge high fees for these

services, including undisclosed sales commissions that are paid to the purported volunteer. Targeted seniors may not be fully aware of the consequences of moving their assets into an annuity or irrevocable trust, such as strict withdrawal limitations leaving them without access to funds they may actually need for their care.

Although a VA pension benefits application based on false financial need may be successful, those who receive this benefit may face significant financial and legal consequences if the concealed funds are discovered, including repayment of benefit amounts received. Seniors who receive other VA or government-sponsored benefits that require disclosure of funds held in annuities and irrevocable trusts are especially vulnerable to reversal of their VA pension benefit.

What to look out for The Attorney General offers California consumers the following tips to protect themselves from VA pension benefits poaching scams: • Anyone who asks you to pay money or move assets in connection with applying for a VA pension benefit is likely not a VA-accredited representative. He or she may be an insurance agent or representative who receives a sales commission for selling you an annuity or irrevocable trust.

• Moving assets into an annuity or irrevocable trust could restrict your access to these funds and may have significant unintended tax or legal consequences that outweigh any financial benefit gained from receiving VA pension benefits.

• If you receive VA pension benefits

Signal Tribune

Valuing our veterans

Photo by Diana Lejins

Representatives of the 26th Cavalry Regiment (Philippine Scouts) participate in the 19th Annual Long Beach Veterans Parade on Saturday, Nov. 7. The group was part of the United States Army Forces Far East’s Philippine Department during World War II. The 26th engaged in the last cavalry charge in the history of the U.S. cavalry, according to Wikipedia. The Long Beach parade traveled down Atlantic Avenue from Harding Street to 56th Street, with two centenarian grand marshals leading it: Clifford Chaffee and Allan Kobrick.

based on false financial need, you could be required to repay any benefits received back to the government.

What to do If you are approached by someone offering to help you apply for VA pension benefits and you would incur any costs or fees in connection with the service being offered, contact your local VA to determine whether this assistance is reputable.

Be wary of sharing personal information over the phone. VA representatives will tell you what you need to

know, and the advice is free.

A directory of VA centers is available at va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter.asp .

Helpful resources If you believe that you are a victim of a pension poaching scam and do meet the age, military service and financial need requirements for a VA pension benefit, VA-accredited representatives including Veterans Service Organizations, agents, and attorneys are available to help you file a claim, free of charge.

You can also file a complaint with the California Department of Justice by visiting oag.ca.gov/contact/ consumer-complaint-against-business-or-company .

A searchable list of VA-accredited representatives is available at va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp and 1-800-827-1000.

For more information about VA Aid and Attendance pension benefits, visit benefits.va.gov/pension .

Source: CA Attorney General’s office

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8

COMMUNITY

Signal Tribune

November 13, 2015

Local bank celebrates client’s 100th birthday

Mary Mulloy opened her first F&M account in 1956 Farmers & Merchants Bank (F&M Bank) celebrated the 100th birthday of Mary Ann Mulloy, a client for nearly 60 years, on Tuesday.

F&M’s main office in downtown Long Beach, 302 Pine Ave., hosted Mulloy’s 100th birthday celebration with a cake, balloons, a special letter of thanks from F&M executives and a birthday song from the crowd.

“Clients like Mary are the reason we get up in the morning and come here to work,” said F&M President W. Henry Walker.

Mulloy attributes her longevity to “the good Lord and a healthy lifestyle,” according to F&M. Mulloy was born in western Nebraska and grew up to pursue a lifetime of teaching that began in 1934 in a Nebraska one-room schoolhouse. She moved to California in 1938 and completed her college education with a bachelor of arts degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 1941 and a master of

arts degree from California State University, Long Beach in 1957, in preparation for teaching in public schools.

She taught first grade in Visalia before relocating to Southern California. Upon her graduation from the Bible Institute of Los Angeles in 1947, she was invited to teach 1st/2nd grade at the new Brethren Christian School being started that year.

In 1964, when the local church she attended was destroyed in a fire, Mulloy opened her home for 10 years to host Saturday night Bible study meetings for military service members.

She taught Sunday School classes for 40 years.

Mulloy continues to remain active since her retirement in 1977. She manages six apartments on a property in which she serves as trustee.

Mulloy’s 100th birthday is on Nov. 20. She has been a client at Farmers & Merchants Bank since 1956.

Source: F&M

Courtesy F&M

On Tuesday, the main branch of the Farmers & Merchants Bank celebrated the birthday of Mary Ann Mullory, who will turn 100 on Nov. 20.

South L.A. County employers acknowledged for providing job opportunities to Goodwill participants with barriers to employment

Courtesy Goodwill SOLAC

From left, 64th District Assemblymember Mike Gipson presents a certificate of recognition to Ben Espitia, director of Workforce Development for Goodwill SOLAC during an employer appreciation luncheon

About 120 people representing companies throughout Southern Los Angeles County joined together at an employer appreciation luncheon on Nov. 5 organized by Goodwill, Serving the People of Southern Los Angeles County (SOLAC). Held at the scenic Hotel Maya in downtown Long Beach, the luncheon was organized to thank employers for providing job opportunities to Goodwill SOLAC’s participants with barriers

to employment.

Sixty-fourth District Assemblymember Mike Gipson, who served as the event’s keynote speaker, praised Goodwill SOLAC for its work in providing job training and placement for the unemployed, underemployed and working poor.

“I’m encouraged by the work Goodwill does day in and day out because truly you are a drum major for justice,” Gipson said. “Truly you are changing people’s lives.”

Two Goodwill SOLAC participants also spoke during the event to share how the organization helped them get back on their feet after falling on hard times. Salvador Medina expressed how grateful he is to Goodwill for helping him find steady employment after spending several years struggling to find work since getting laid off from his longtime technical job. Jeannette Chism revealed that she battled with alcoholism before enrolling in the Culinary Arts Program at Long Beach City College, where Goodwill offers employment services that helped her establish a career in the food-service industry.

Some of the employers represented at the event were 24-Hour Home Care, Alamitos Belmont Rehabilitation Hospital, Broadway By The Sea, Cambrian Homecare, Christina’s Uniforms Company, Edgewater Skilled Nursing Center, HSG Inc., Living Well Home Care, Rite Aid, Savor SMG, and Securitas USA. For more information, visit ThinkGood.org .

Source: Good will SOLAC

November 13, 2015

Signal Tribune

9

10

CULTURE

Signal Tribune

November 13, 2015

Life

Imitating Cory Bilicko

Turtles, pigs and more turtles

“Turtle” Wayne Chan

San Francisco-area artist Wayne Chan, who is currently showing at the Daniel Rolnik Gallery in Santa Monica, draws turtles. And lots of them.

But don’t take my word for it; the evidence is on his Instagram (@turtlewayne), which features scores and scores of turtle drawings, as well as depictions (including GIFs) of other anthropomorphized creatures. The artworks are simplistic and straightforward, especially compared to the more elaborate pieces Chan creates for those who commission his work.

Having earned a bachelor’s of art degree from UC Davis and a master’s of art degree from California State University, East Bay, the 36-yearold Hayward, California native now

“Doodle Hotel Des Arts,” ink and color markers on paper

does commissions and projects for various clients and companies.

Where did the idea for turtles come from, and why are they included in the majority (if not all) of your work?

“Turtle Chick-Fil-A,” ink and color markers on paper

I like drawing. I like turtles. I draw turtles.

How many turtle pieces have you created?

Close to 2000 different turtle drawings now.

Have you ever created one that

stirred any controversy?

Turtle Tit, Turtle, Chick-fil-A, Turtle Hitler and when I drew other things besides turtles, like rabbits, elephants, thugs, poop and nothing.

Do you have a personal favorite?

1. Turtle Bacon (first one I posted

“Turtle Tit,” ink and color markers on paper

Just

on Instagram) 2. Turtle Herpes (So gross yet so cute) 3. Turtle Personal Favorite (haven’t made it yet, but it will be a personal favorite How much time do you spend working on art?

Seventy-five percent of time.

“Turtle Hitler,” ink and color markers on paper

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NEWS

November 13, 2015

Long Beach man gets maximum sentence for hit-and-run DUI

Ramiro Vargas-Toral of Long Beach received the maximum sentence of 18 months in jail after a jury convicted him of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), fleeing the scene of an accident and driving without a valid driver’s license. This was Vargas-Toral’s second DUI conviction.

On Nov. 10, Long Beach Superior Court Judge Halim Dhanidina sentenced Vargas-Toral to the maximum term, noting “the seriousness of the crimes and the ridiculous nature of the defendant’s testimony,” according to the City Prosecutor’s office.

“The defendant needs to be held accountable for his dangerous driving,” said City Prosecutor Doug Haubert.

Evidence showed Vargas-Toral was driving his flat-bed truck home shortly before midnight on June 13, when he struck his neighbor’s parked SUV. The neighbor was alerted and was outside talking to witnesses and police when Vargas-Toral returned to the scene. Vargas-Toral admitted to officers he had consumed “four beers,” and stated, “I’m drunk,” according to the City Prosecutor’s

office.

Shortly thereafter, Vargas-Toral refused to cooperate any further in the investigation, according to the City Prosecutor’s office.

At the trial, Vargas-Toral claimed he had not been drinking and told jurors he could not have damaged his neighbor’s SUV because he does not drive his own truck. Jurors convicted him after hearing testimony from the officers, who found on Vargas-Toral’s flatbed a piece of the broken taillight that “was exactly the piece that was missing” from the neighbor’s SUV. Long Beach Deputy City Prosecutor Arlene Anderson argued to jurors that Vargas-Toral refused to perform the tests because he knew from his 2006 DUI arrest how drunk he really was.

“He was trying to hide his intoxication from the officers,” Anderson said.

At sentencing, Judge Dhanidina noted the defendant’s version of the facts were “ridiculous” and imposed the maximum sentence of 18 months.

Signal Tribune

New technology to help fire department streamline management of systems The Long Beach City Council this week approved the use of a web-based system to help the fire department better manage inspection, testing and maintenance services for fire-protection systems at thousands of buildings throughout the city’s 52 square miles.

“Fire-protection systems save lives,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “We are using technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our current system by enabling the fire department to quickly access this crucial information electronically.”

Approximately 15 licensed firms currently test fire-protections systems in Long Beach.

They submit documentation by email or fax to the Long Beach Fire Department, which logs them into a spreadsheet. To retrieve the reports, fire-prevention staff review the spreadsheets and manually pull the files.

The new system, called Compliance Engine, collects, organizes and categorizes the annual third-party inspection reports. The system tracks building fire-protection systems and knows whether they are compliant, which is integral to keeping occupants and firefighters safe, according to city officials.

“Compliance Engine will proactively drive compliance, increase efficiency by maximizing staff resources, decrease false alarms and reduce repeat calls and re-inspections,” said Fire Chief Mike DuRee. The fire department will begin using Compliance Engine for the 78 high-rise buildings in Long Beach that have multiple fire-protection systems, and then add commercial, assembly, educational, industrial and eventually residential buildings.

The system will be provided at no cost to the City and is funded by the inspection and service companies that enter the data into Compliance Engine.

Source: City of LB

Source: LB City Prosecutor’s office

LB Health and Human Services receives grant for bicycle, pedestrian safety education The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to offer bicycle and pedestrian safety workshops over the next year.

“We look forward to using this funding in support of our ongoing commitment to keeping roadways safe and improving quality of life for residents and visitors,” said Mayor Robert Garcia.

After falling dramatically between 2006 and 2010, the number of persons killed and injured in traffic collisions has been slowly rising in California, particularly, recent increases in pedestrian and bicycle fatalities, according to city officials.

“Walking and bicycling outside are great forms of exercise and transportation, supporting wellness in our communities,” said Department of Health and Human Services Director Kelly Colopy. “This OTS grant will allow us to train community members to be safe while they’re enjoying these activities.”

This funding will help combat bicycle and pedestrian injuries and fatalities by offering free bicycle safety workshops to community members residing in high collision areas. In addition, Health and Human Services will facilitate walking workshops where residents will provide input on how to make their neighborhoods safer for walking. The grant will also fund bicycle safety teen academies and bicycle safety workshops.

“Overall, California’s roadways are among the safest in the nation,” said OTS Director Rhonda Craft.

“But to meet future mobility, safety and accessible transportation objectives, we have to reverse this recent trend in order to reach our common goal– zero deaths on our roadways.

The Office of Traffic Safety and the City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services want to work with everyone to create a culture of traffic safety across Long Beach and the state.”

Funding for this program is from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Workshops and activities will take place between January and September of 2016.

Source: City of LB

11

Signal Hill Park Community Center 1780 E. Hill St. Cost: $3 per person

Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for story time, singing, and cookies.

Each seating is limited to 75 people.

Register early, this event will fill up!

Pre-registration is required.

Limited to 4 adults per family.

Registration begins: Residents: Monday, November 9 Non-Residents: Monday, November 23 Community Services Department 2175 Cherry Ave, Signal Hill 90755 • (562) 989-7330

12

Signal Tribune

TST5045 / 2015 262510 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: JRS LANDSCAPING, 197 E. Hullett St., Long Beach, CA 90805. Registrant: CARRILLO FERNANDO, 197 E. Hullett St., Long Beach, CA 90805. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Carrillo Fernando. 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 October 1, 2010. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on October 14, 2015. 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: October 23, 30, & November 6, 13, 2015.

TST5052 / 2015 277007 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following persons are doing business as: EAST LONG BEACH CURVES, 6536 E. Spring St., Long Beach, CA 90815. Registrants: 1. ROSE MARIE J. GREEN, 2.

ROBERT E. GREEN, 2945 Ladoga Ave., Long Beach, CA 90815.

This business is conducted by: a Married Couple. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Robert E. Green. 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 October 29, 2015. 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: November 6, 13, 20,27, 2015.

BE SEEN! Call one of our representatives today to learn more about how to advertise your business!

(562) 595-7900

PUBLIC NOTICES TST4961 / Case No. TS018733.

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME, SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, 200 Compton Blvd., Comptin, CA 90220.

PETITION OF Blake F. Tufele.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: BLAKE FOTUONUUTAUA-MANAI TUFELE, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing his name as follows: Present Name: BLAKE FOTUONUUTAUA-MANAI TUFELE, to Proposed Name: BLAKE FOTUONUUTAUA MANAI. 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, shy the petition for change of name should not be granted.

NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: January 11, 2016; Time: 8:30am.; Dept. SCB. The address of the court is the same as above. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county, THE SIGNAL TRIBUNE, 939 E. 27th. Street, Signal Hill, CA 90755: November 13, 20, 27, & December 4, 2015. ___//ss//___ William Barry, Judge of the Superior Court Dated: November 9, 2015 TST5058 / 2015 287318 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: PATRICIA’S RESTAURANT, 3626 Atlantic Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807. Registrant: DAVID SANCHEZ, 3626 Atlantic 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: David Sanchez. 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 May 4, 2001.

This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on November 10, 2015. 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: November 13, 20,27, & December 4, 2015.

TST5059 / 2015 262495 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: LSB ENTERPRISES, 3722 Cedar Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807. Registrant: LUIS LINARES, 3722 Cedar 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: Luis Linares.

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 October 14, 2015. 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: November 13, 20,27, & December 4, 2015.

TST5048 APN: 7215-025-081 TS No: CA01000182-15 TO No: 95308258 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED August 26, 2005. 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 November 24, 2015 at 10:00 AM, near the fountain located in the Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766, Special Default Services, Inc., as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on September 1, 2005 as Instrument No. 05 2111202 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, executed by MARCOS RAMIREZ, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor(s), in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. as nominee for IMPAC FUNDING CORPORATION DBA IMPAC LENDING GROUP, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: LOT 7 IN BLOCK `N` OF SIGNAL HILL, IN THE CITY OF SIGNAL HILL AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 9 PAGES 2 AND 3 OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. EX-

City of Signal Hill 2175 Cherry Avenue Signal Hill, CA 90755-3799 TST5057 NOTICE OF PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, November 24, 2015, the City Council of the City of Signal Hill will conduct a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber located at City Hall, 2175 Cherry Avenue, Signal Hill, California to consider the following: ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 15-03 ADDING CHAPTER 18.13 FINANCE AND CONVEYANCE MAPS TO THE SIGNAL HILL MUNICIPAL CODE. CONSISTENT WITH THE SUBDIVISION MAP ACT, THE PURPOSE OF THE ORDINANCE IS TO: • ESTABLISH A PROCESS FOR MAPS TO BE PROCESSED FOR FINANCE OR CONVEYANCE PURPOSES. • SUCH MAPS WILL NOT CREATE LEGAL BUILDABLE LOTS THEREFORE, A FINAL MAP MUST BE PROCESSED CONSISTENT WITH EXISTING PROVISIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT TO OCCUR. • EXISTING VESTING, TENTATIVE AND FINAL MAP PROVISIONS WILL REMAIN. Applicant: SummerHill Homes Recommendation: Staff is recommending City Council approval.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are hereby invited to attend the hearing to present written information, express their opinion or otherwise present evidence on the above matter.

IF YOU WISH TO LEGALLY challenge any action taken by the City on the above matter, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City prior to or at the public hearings.

THIS PROJECT IS EXEMPT from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to the general rule Section 15061(b)(3) that adoption of the ordinance will have no physical effect on the environment.

FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained at the City of Signal Hill Community Development Department located at 2175 Cherry Avenue, Signal Hill, California, or by emailing Selena Alanis, Associate Planner, at salanis@cityofsignalhill.org or calling at (562) 989-7341.

Published in the Signal Tribune newspaper per Gov’t Code §65091(a)(4): Posted in accordance with S.H.M.C. Section 1.08.010:

November 13, 2015 November 13, 2015

CEPT ALL MINERALS, OIL, GAS AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES IN, UNDER OR WHICH MAY BE PRODUCED FROM SAID LANDS BUT WITHOUT RIGHT OF ENTRY UPON THE SURFACE THEREOF OR RIGHT TO OCCUPY OR USE ANY PORTION OF SAID LANDS LYING WITHIN 500 FEET BELOW THE SURFACE AS RESERVED BY LOIS H. NISSEN, IN DEED RECORDED MAY 17, 1971 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 2628, OFFICIAL RECORDS. 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: 2214 MOLINO AVENUE, SIGNAL HILL, CA 90755. 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 without covenant or warranty, express 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. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligations secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is estimated to be $598,965.35 (Estimated). However, prepayment premiums, accrued interest and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a cashier’s check drawn on 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 California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the Trustee. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. 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 In Source Logic AT 702-659-7766 for information regarding the Special Default Services, Inc. or visit the Internet Web site address listed below for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA0100018215. 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: October 22, 2015 Special Default Services, Inc. TS No. CA01000182-15 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 (844) 706-4182 TDD: 866-660-4288 Lisa Rohrbacker, Trustee Sales Officer SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www. insourcelogic.com FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: In Source Logic AT 702-659-7766 SPECIAL DEFAULT SERVICES, INC. MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. ORDER NO. CA15-003836-1, PUB DATES: 10/30/2015, 11/06/2015, 11/13/2015 TST5056 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE § 2923.3(a), THE SUMMARY OF INFOR-

November 13, 2015 MATION REFERRED TO BELOW IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE RECORDED COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT BUT ONLY TO THE COPIES PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR. NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 05/06/2005. 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. Trustor: Wesley McEldoon, A Single Man Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC Recorded 05/24/2005 as Instrument No. 05 1211912 in book ---, page--- and of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, Date of Sale: 12/10/2015 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: BEHIND THE FOUNTAIN LOCATED IN CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, 400 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, POMONA, CA Estimated amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $ 574,584.06 WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON 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, A SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of Trust. Street Address or other common designation of real property: 3315 Falcon Avenue, Signal Hill, CA 90755 A.P.N.: 7148-018-034 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. 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.

The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $ 574,584.06. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located.

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 this property.

Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt 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 (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site HYPERLINK “http://www.altisource. com/MortgageServices/DefaultManagement/TrusteeServices.aspx”http://www. altisource.com/MortgageServices/DefaultManagement/TrusteeServices.aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2014-03178-CA. 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: October 29, 2015 Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee for beneficiary C/o Corporate Park, Suite 450 Irvine, CA 92606

NEWS

November 13, 2015

Signal Tribune

13

BKBIA

continued from page 1

dollars in their own neighborhood, to support that micro-economy and keep its retail thriving.

As a chill is evident in the air, so is change.

Among the newest additions to the area is Twig & Willow, a clothing and accessories boutique located at 4130 Atlantic Ave. The owners already had a shop in Belmont Heights, and they opened the Bixby Knolls store during the First Fridays Art Walk on Nov. 6.

“They’ve added a great piece of retail here,” Cohn said, adding that the owners have expanded their offerings with the new location.

The area’s growing list of places to eat will soon be that much longer when a Mexican eatery opens its doors in late January in the space Le Yen Chinese restaurant had occupied for 45 years, up until it closed its doors in late July. Like Twig & Willow, Lola’s Mexican Cuisine will be opening a second location in Bixby Knolls. Its first restaurant is located at 2030 E 4th St. Cohn said Lola’s owner, Luis Navarro Jr., has had all his permits approved and the restaurant will open on Jan. 25.

Focusing his attention on the northern portion of the business district, Cohn said the newly named shopping center The Knolls, which is in the 4200 block of Long Beach Boulevard, has been undergoing renovations and will soon house Trader Joe’s, Crunch Fitness, Pet Food Express, Jersey Mike’s sub restaurant and another eatery, whose name Cohn could not yet disclose at press time.

He indicated there is still a space for a sixth retail establishment in the center. Red Mountain Retail Group, an Orange County-based real-estate asset-management and development firm, closed escrow on that property earlier this year and is looking for one more tenant to fill that space.

A few blocks east of that location, in the Bixby Knolls Shopping Center, Smart & Final will be opening a store in the former OSH location.

Massage Envy has also set up shop and opened for business in the center, which, additionally, will soon house a new post office.

The eastern portion of the Bixby Knolls Shopping Center, which is called California Plaza, has also been undergoing a makeover.

“North of them, of course, is where the post office was,” Cohn said. “After the 1st of the year, that build-out will happen. So, CVS is still there; they’ve shrunk their operation. And they have another tenant signed, which, we’re waiting for that green light to announce what it

Photos by Cory Bilicko/Signal Tribune

A worker sweeps gravel outside the former post office at 4580 Atlantic Ave. That USPS location closed in February, and a new post office is expected to open nearby in the Bixby Knolls Shopping Center at 4462-4470 Atlantic Ave. in the next few months.

is, but that center will also be redone and filled as retail.”

Cohn said that shopping complex is owned by the Yavitz Companies, Inc. “They’re the same people who will be pulling the trigger to build the Chick-Fil-A on the south side of 33rd [Street],” Cohn said. “So that’s going on down there.”

Referring further to that southern section of the business district, the executive director acknowledged the closing of Fresh & Easy. According to the store’s employees, that location will close its doors for good on Friday, Nov. 13.

“I’ve got to work with the 7th District [Council] office to find out if that property owner has any ideas or anybody already looking at the space or if they’re just trying to settle up and close.”

A few blocks over to the northwest, Steelcraft Containers is building a park that features six eateries on the corner of Bixby Road and Long Beach Boulevard. Those restaurants will be built into shipping containers, and there will be seating and tables on the property.

“Steelcraft is already past all of its approvals,” Cohn said. “They just posted the public notice for their liquor license for Smog City Brewing as one of the tenants.”

That business is expected to open in February. Other dining places expected there include a ramen eatery, a coffee shop and Working Class Kitchen, “a whole-animal butcher, deli, and sandwich shop,” according to that company’s website.

As for the existing Trader Joe’s

location, that property’s impending fate is still uncertain.

“The property owner of the current Trader Joe’s space has signed a lease with a use that is not zoned here,” Cohn said. “So, they have to kind of back out of that and find a better use for their space.”

In describing the BKBIA’s involvement in acquiring new retail, Cohn acknowledged the chessboard-like dynamics of the business district and how his team stays engaged in the process.

“We just follow up with everybody and see how it’s moving around, and we try to reach out to the brokers to get a feel of ‘what have they got in the queue, who are they talking to?’” he said. “Or if we hear of a space we think that works and they have somebody looking, we try to connect them as fast as possible.”

He said, by February, much of these developments will have come to fruition, and he described it as being “a coup.”

Among the special events the BKBIA hosts to support the area’s businesses is the “cash mob,” whereby a group of people show up at a particular business to patronize it during an hour or so of shopping. The first one was at Pixie Toys in September of 2012.

The meet-up was inspired by the flash mob– a group of people who abruptly congregate in a particular location, present a performance (usually a dance), then go their separate ways. With the first Bixby Knolls “cash mobs,” a group would congregate at a designated place at

Twig & Willow, a clothing and accessories boutique opened for business at 4130 Atlantic Ave. during the First Fridays Art Walk on Nov. 6.

an established time, with a particular amount of money in pocket, ready to be informed of the business they would target. Cohn said the BKBIA has featured six more businesses since that first one and has tweaked the format a bit, now announcing in advance where the mob will shop or dine, in an effort to provide the establishment with more publicity.

Other ongoing community-building and business-supporting programs the association hosts are the Bixby Strollers walking group, the Kidical Mass family bike rides, the literary society, Concerts in the Park(ing Lot) and the supper club, through which a particular restaurant is selected for group patronage on a Monday night. Using that meetup as a model, the BKBIA is now starting a Bixby Knolls Good Spirits Club.

“This is specifically for the restaurants and bars,” Cohn explained.

“Really, it’s supper club without the food.”

The club will meet at establishments that serve alcohol but also welcome children. That way, couples or families with kids will be able to join in. The idea behind this particular program is to reach a segment of the local population that may not already participate in the walking group or the literary society.

The BKBIA has already hosted a low-key trial of the new event at Phil Trani’s The former Ralph’s market in Bixby Knolls is undergoing renovations and will soon house Trader Joe’s, Crunch Fitness, Pet Food Express, restaurant, which offered “oldJersey Mike’s sub restaurant and another eatery.

school” cocktails. The program is expected to continue with various “spirited” themes, such as wines of South America, craft beers or sake.

“It’s not about going out and boozing it up,” Cohn said. “It’s just another social hour to get people together, to support the business, and in doing it in a fun way, by having an adult night out– or bring your kids.”

As the holidays approach, the BKBIA is planning a number of events to honor the occasions.

The first will come the day after Black Friday– Small Business Saturday.

“That’s the day that specifically is targeted to support small businesses,” Cohn said. “But, for us, we say every day is Small Business [Day].”

He said that on that day, Nov. 28, the plan thus far is to have bands and deejays performing, as well as children’s activities, throughout the business district in the afternoon.

“You’ve done Black Friday,” Cohn said, “but now we want you to be in your neighborhood for at least these three hours, minimum, to go out and get your car washed or buy gifts or get your hair done, whatever it is, but support the local businesses on that day– just as the one designation, but our job is to do this allyear-round.”

He explained that this event works in concert with the “Bought it in Bixby” campaign, through which locals are asked to make “one change” as consumers by using a retailer in their neighborhood in lieu of one that is farther away.

“If everybody can make a shift, then it just boosts the economy,” he said, adding that it’s not legitimate for residents to complain about losing stores and restaurants if they had not patronized them.

“It only works if you’re out there participating,” Cohn said. “We say, ‘It’s not legit.’ It’s not legit for somebody to mourn a place when it’s leaving or after it’s gone. You have to celebrate it now, while it’s here.” ✦

14

November 13, 2015

Signal Tribune

Riverwalk

continued from page 1

of the development plan. Virgil Sangria said that the project would help boost the value of their homes and boost the surrounding businesses.

Jon Sloan lives on 48th Street, close to the development.

“I do support positive change that is coming into the neighborhood,” Sloan said, but he did add that he was concerned about the increased amount of traffic in the neighborhood and the additional parking. He also acknowledged that there is a street in the area that appears to be sinking, but he still supported the project.

Ed Gallagher, a spokesman for the developer Integral Communities, acknowledged several of the concerns brought up by numerous speakers.

“If we do anything on that site to cause damage to houses, we will fix it,” he said. Integral Communities has already taken steps to do some neighborhood improvement. They have painted area homes outside of the subdivision site and have even provided drought-tolerant landscaping for some of the homes.

Austin acknowledged that the community has been split on the project, but he led the push in favor of the project, acknowledging the long history to develop the site after

A rendering of the entrance of the proposed Riverwalk Residential Development project located at 4747 Daisy Ave. in Long Beach.

the Boy Scouts decided to sell it.

“My mission has been to upgrade uptown...to improve the quality of life in our communities,” he said, “and take to advantage of opportunities that are in front of us, and I see

this as a rare opportunity.”

When the council had passed all of the motions required for the development site, Mayor Robert Garcia offered parting words to the residents who remained behind for the vote.

He said that the City would continue to try and work to invest in the neighborhood. He also offered an admonishment to Integral Communities.

“But to the developers of this new community,” he said, “you also have

Longbeach.gov

a very big responsibility now in working with this neighborhood, as you all know, in providing the services and support in creating a community that really integrates with everyone.” ✦

School

continued from page 2

enroll in the school, and funding is garnered through daily attendance.

Gateway’s independence from the CCLB is from a pure operational standpoint, Forester said. With the aforementioned WASC accreditation, Gateway is a fully operational charter school for the next three years, and this allows a wider acceptance of students, not just CCLB members.

“The opportunity is phenomenal,” Forester said, praising the ability for people that have fallen out of the system of high school education to now return at no cost and earn a degree.

“I think...that, statistically, a high school education can guarantee them about $7000 more a year,” he said. “It’s great.”

Bassett agrees.

“The quality is there,” Bassett said. “Our hopes are reaching this group of young people that for whatever reason, and I guarantee you the reasons are as many and varied as we have students, they dropped out of school. Sometimes peer pressure.

Sometimes falling behind. We have teachers that are unusually capable of working with young adults and get them caught up, so to speak.”

Teachers at the charter school all are required to have California credentials. Currently, the school has 35 staff members working with 90 students. It proves to be a challenge for teachers as all students have different credit requirements, which makes it difficult to assess individual progress.

Courtesy Conservation Corps of LB

Students and staff at the Gateway Cities Charter School attend a meeting at the educational site in Bixby Knolls. Teachers at the school are all required to have California credentials. Currently, the school has 35 staff members working with 90 students.

However, at any given time, members of the CCLB are available at the program’s disposal if help is needed, Bassett said. The school can even go as far as to holding more than 200 students.

It’s free education for young indi-

viduals who need it the most, Bassett said.

“There’s no psychological obstacles in the sense that everybody is equal,” he said. “I think for those that didn’t finish their high school and thought they couldn’t, that’s a

lot of what they believed. This is their chance to get that thing out of the way. It’s an interesting commitment from these young folks. It takes a lot of courage to say ‘Hey, I want to go back to school. I’m an adult, but I need to go get my high

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school diploma.’ They’re just great young people.”

To learn more about Gateway Cities Charter School, call (562) 216-1790, visit the school at 3635 Atlantic Ave. or visit cclb-corps.org .✦

November 13, 2015

Signal Tribune

Metaphora Wine Dinner AT DELIUS RESTAURANT

Friday, November 20th 2015 at 7:15pm • Hosted by Winery Owner Ravi Mehta 1st Course Salad with Pomegranate, Sweetbreads, Arugula/Frisee, Pine Nuts, Pomegranate Dressing Sauvignon Blanc 2014

2nd Course Oxtail Tortellini, Roasted Tomato Ragout, Fava Beans, Mushroom Broth Pinot Noir 2009

3rd Course Lamb Porterhouse, Sunchoke Puree, Roasted Peppercorn Demi, Grilled White Asparagus Cabernet Franc 2012

4th Course Hanger Steak, Red Currant Spiced Grits, Haricot Verts, Caramelized Onion Béchamel Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

$130 per person

Dessert

plus tax and gratuity

Coffee

Thanksgiving Dinner to go Vodka & Gin Seminar

48-hour advance notice (except for turkey) • Pick up on Wednesday 11/26 after 2pm Wednesday July 29th 8:00-9:30pm

Presented in the intimate setting of our Prix Fixe dining room.

Turkey Throughout the year we offer a variety of tasting events featuring different liquors and spirits. These are hosted by Jeremy Dugan, the liquor buyer from The Wine Country in Signal Hill.

informative and delicious focusing on artisanal

Besides being a lot of fun, they are extremely educational. This seminar will prove to be

meals for attendees of the Vodka & Gin Seminar

vodkas and gins, many craftedturkey in the U.S.ready to roast (with failsafe instructions) $3.50/lb.

Whole Turkey - uncooked, dressed We recommend eating a light dinner before the Size subject totasting availability.

TURKEY MUST BE ORDERED BY MONDAY 11/23 so we are offering a• 10% discount on Delius

Stuffed Turkey Breast (serves 2-4) $30 ea.

Only $35 per person plus tax & gratuity

Soup

Side Dishes AUGUST EVENT

(serves 2-3) $5/pt.

Pine Nut, Sage Stuffing (serves 2-4) $8/pt.

Sweet Potato Champagne Spicy Green Bean Salad (serves 2-3) $5/half lb.

Roasted Red Bell Pepper & Tomato Bisque Brussel Sprouts Saturday, August with 29th Bacon 2015 $7/pt.

7:15pm Desserts Potatoes (serves 2-4) Choose One: Join Mashed us for our annual German Wine Dinner.

Allie from Rudi Wiest Imports$8/pt. will once again lead in a culinary of these amazingly foodby friendly BothusBishop’s Peakexploration andCream Tally wines are handcrafted Talleywines.

Vineyard’s Winemaker Eric Johnson. They are the (Roasted Garlic, Cheese and Nutmeg Pumpkin Spice Cake w/ Caramel Sauce $15/ea. quintessential and truly show how “great wines are defined by place.”

1st Courseexample of Central Coast winemaking 4th Course Crab, Avocado and Golden Beet Napoleon, Frisee, Grilled Hanger Steak, Red Wine Reduction, Farro or Potato Parsnip Puree) Pumpkin Cheesecake w/ Pecan Crust $19/ea.

Grilled Serrano Vinaigrette, Toasted Almonds Risotto, Roasted Carrot Puree, Cipollini Onions, 5-Course Dinner 1st Course Garnished with Fried Carrot Sweet Mashed Potatoes w/ Maple Butter (serves 2-4) $8/pt.

2nd25th Course: Pecan Pie $14/ea.

Saturday, April Citrus Watercress Salad, Whipped Goat Cheese, Pickled Pearl Onions, Pancetta Crispy Skin Loup de Mer, Basil Broth with Fennel and 5th Course Bishop’s Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2013 Gravy (serves 2-4) $8/pt.Dessert Baby Heirloom Tomatoes, Lemon Oil @ 7:15pm Chocolate Marble Brownies $16/doz.

3rd Course Executive Chef – Louise Solzmanan Executive Chef Apple Compote (serves Cranberry 2-4) $7/pt.2nd Course Assorted Cookie Platter $9/doz.

Caramelized Spaetzle, Duck Confit, Grilled King Prix Fixe Chef – Kate Westenberg Louise Solzman Sautéed Monkfish, Pommes Puree, Braised Greens Oyster Mushroom, Brown Butter, Garlic Chips Sous Chef – Patrick Gallardo of Shallot Bread (homemade) $8/loaf Cinnanon Coffee Cake $14/ea.

Talley Chardonnay 2012 SousLoaf Chef

German Wine Dinner

Talley Vineyards Wine Dinner

Patrick Gallardo $85 per person, plus tax and gratuity

3rd Course

Roasted Quail, Mushroom Pecan Risotto, White Asparagus,Balsamic Reduction Talley Pinot Noir 2013 Sun: 10am - 9pm, Mon: 11am - 9pm, Tue - Thurs: 11am - 10pm, Fri: 11am - 11pm, & Sat: Noon - 11pm 4th Course Grilled Hanger Steak, Celery Root Puree, Roasted Farm Carrots, Cipollini Onions, Peppercorn Demi Bishop’s Peak Elevation 2012

Hours

2951 Cherry Avenue, Si g nal Hi l l 2951 Cherry Avenue, $87 per person Call (562) 426-0694 reservations@deliusrestaurant.com 5th Course

• 562-426-0694 Signal ForHillReservati oDessert ns: Coffee

plus tax and gratuity

15

16

Signal Tribune

November 13, 2015