April 27, 2018 Part 1

S IGNA L T R I BU N E Serving Bixby Knolls, California Heights, Los Cerritos, Wrigley and Signal Hill VOL. XL NO. 18

IN THIS ISSUE NEWS JetBlue changes routes, schedule at LB Airport

City officials say there are multiple carriers interested in new slots.

Page 7

Safe in school?

O’Donnell bill to allow teachers to lock doors from inside classroom moves forward.

Page 15

LBPD commander appointed as new deputy chief

Avila will lead police department’s Support Bureau.

Page 11

COMMUNITY When ‘disaster’ strikes

Triennial disaster drill at Long Beach Airport tests emergency responses of personnel, equipment.

Page 6

Your Weekly Community Newspaper

www.signaltribune.com

April 27, 2018

SH City Council approves library capital campaign Finding homes for those without– and upgrades for those with

Program could raise up to $1,000,000 in additional library funds.

Anita W. Harris Staff Writer

At its April 24 meeting, the Signal Hill City Council approved a capital campaign to raise additional funds for the new Signal Hill library currently under construction. The council also heard about efforts to save Community Medical Center Long Beach and recognized a local business during the council’s “small-business spotlight.”

The council also recognized Rose Richárd as the city’s 2018 Outstanding Older American.

Library campaign Though the new Signal Hill public library currently under construction is fully funded, the council approved a capital campaign, in partnership with the The Signal Hill Community Foundation (SHCF), that could generate up to $1,000,000 in additional funds.

Aly Mancini, community services director, said that though library basics, such as books and computers, are currently covered by the City’s budget, the additional funding will enhance its equipment, materials, programs and services over the next 10 to 20 years. Examples include laptops to check out, iPads to teach from and a 24-hour vending machine for books and other materials.

The campaign includes two types of contribution opportunities: purchase of space on a 19-foot “legacy wall” at the entrance of the library and naming opportunities for its areas and rooms.

Mancini said that legacy-wall opportunities begin at $1,000.

“The legacy wall recognizes individuals, groups, organizations and business who have made significant financial contributions to the library,” Mancini said. “The wall will feature clear acrylic tiles engraved with donor names, intermingled with photographs […] depicting life in Signal Hill.”

Naming opportunities for high-level corporate and community sponsorship range from $5,000 for a public computer to $100,000 to name the community room. A plaque with a name of the donor’s choosing will be installed in perpetuity on a wall outside the room or area selected.

“Naming opportunities allow individuals and businesses to name various areas and spaces within the building in exchange for a large onetime donation or annual ongoing donations,” Mancini said.

SHCF will serve as financial host

City of Long Beach initiates several programs to address various housing issues.

Cory Bilicko Managing Editor

Targeting a number of different housing problems residents have been facing, the City of Long Beach has recently initiated several programs to address homelessness, an aging housing stock and issues related to short-term rentals. Last week, officials announced: the commencement of an initiative that addresses the statewide homeless crisis and its effects on the city; an upcoming workshop to support homeowners in making their residences “healthy, comfortable, and environmentally friendly”; and the start of the process to develop a proposed short-term rental (STR) ordinance that the community is encouraged to help devise.

Community Hospital Matthew Faulkner, executive director of the Community Hospital Long Beach Foundation (CHLBF), presented on the status of the hospital and efforts to save it from closing due to seismic-activity concerns.

Faulkner gave a brief overview of the situation, explaining that the Reservoir Hill Faultline runs through Community Medical Center and that its operator, MemorialCare, said it would cease operations due to seismic conditions as of July 3.

The City of Long Beach, which owns the property, is interested in bringing in a new operator for the site, he said.

“Currently, the City of Long Beach is entertaining offers from about 10 different suitors to operate the facility,” Faulkner said, adding that it has until June 30, 2019 to address the

Everyone Home LB On April 19, city officials announced the start of Everyone Home Long Beach, a new initiative intended to build on existing efforts– by the Long Beach Health Department, the Continuum of Care and the Homeless Services Advisory Committee– to streamline processes, foster cohesiveness and bring attention to projects and programs that address homelessness and housing.

Officials said chief executive officers and community leaders from the city’s “major institutions” will participate in the initiative to develop new solutions to support those current efforts to transition people back into housing and services, identify opportunities to support those who need housing and devise solutions to prevent homelessness from occurring. The City has determined that prevention is one of the least funded efforts in the Continuum of Care but that providing increased support for families and people in crisis can prevent vulnerable seniors, families, veterans and youth from experiencing homelessness.

“While Long Beach has done some amazing work to address homelessness, it is clear we must do more,” Mayor Robert Garcia said, in a city press release issued last week.

“This initiative is designed to mobi-

see COUNCIL page 12

see HOUSING page 14

Courtesy City of SH

Floor plan of new Signal Hill public library currently under construction. The Signal Hill City Council approved a library capital campaign at its April 24 meeting that would create a legacy wall in front of the library entrance and naming opportunities for its rooms. of the funding effort, with the City’s finance director serving as its board treasurer. A third-party accountant will also help ensure proper oversight and management of the funds.

SHCF will produce a 12-page brochure and eight-minute video informing the community about the sponsorship opportunities.

Hansen suggested that one use for the funds could be purchasing Chromebooks for students who don’t have such technology at home since they now use Chromebooks in the classroom.

“We don’t know what’s coming in the next few years as far as trends in library services,” Mancini acknowledged. “There may be things that come up that we simply don’t have in the budget and that we could lean on this funding for. […] It gives us some room to grow in this amazing facility.”

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Signal Tribune

April 27, 2018

April 27, 2018

NEWS

Signal Tribune

Masterminding 50 miles of river

3

With 2020 goal, Long Beach councilmember among 35 subcommittee members seeking to update 22-year LA River plan.

Denny Cristales Online Editor

The members have been appointed– Long Beach 1st District Councilmember Lena Gonzalez among them– and now all that is needed is the Los Angeles River Master Plan Committee’s brainpower to conjure up an updated version of the river’s existing 22-year plan.

Gonzalez is one of 35 appointed members of the Steering Committee, which is providing input, ideas, comments and feedback throughout the entire Los Angeles River planning process. A consultant team and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works will factor in committee, stakeholder and public input in preparation of an updated master plan.

The County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors is authorized in adopting a new plan by 2020 in an attempt to modernize the existing plan.

“Specifically for Long Beach, I would like to work on improving our environment through the addition of new active recreational-use and open space,” Gonzalez wrote in an email to the Signal Tribune.

“Additionally, as we sit at the mouth of the river, we have to be very conscious and mindful of issues around stormwater run-off and water quality to ensure that our residents are not adversely affected.”

In a newsletter last week, Gonzalez wrote that Janice Hahn, 4th-district Los Angeles County supervisor, appointed her as a member of the committee. In her first meeting as a

A time line of the Steering Committee’s Los Angeles River Master Plan update process

member that same week, she learned of the committee’s goals, which were to provide new changes to the 1996 LA River plan as a complement to the existing objectives.

There are three subcommittees, each emphasizing either water, environmental and outreach aspects of the project.

“Overall, our goal is to put togeth-

er a plan that is inclusive of existing plans, understands the history of the LA River as a flood-control channel and creates a plan that is broad enough that each individual community along the river can implement what makes the most sense for their area,” Gonzalez said.

The councilmember added that there has been much localized work

on the project since the plan was previously updated in 1996 to restore the river’s natural ecology. She said an update would be essential in “connecting the existing plans and filling in the gaps.”

According to a time line available at larivermasterplan.org, the Steering Committee will: • Brainstorm its ideas in April

larivermasterplan.org

• Draft vision principles and create a community-outreach plan in June • Identify gaps in the existing plans and standards in September • Draft flood-control alternatives in December • Draft planning, design, flood-mitigation and project concepts in see RIVER page 15

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OPINION

Signal Tribune

COMMENTARY

Thoughts from the Managing Editor

Visiting the land of clovers: What I learned from my week-long Ireland trip

By Denny Cristales Online Editor

By Cory Bilicko In honor of our special pets section on page 8 this week, I decided to write about one of my current art pieces, which features dogs.

As a visual artist who’s been creating paintings and mixed-media pieces steadily since 2011, I’ve spent virtually all of my art-making time in my studio in Bixby Knolls– blocking out the world and its distractions with my big headphones and my favorite creative-juice-inducing tunes– usually wearing nothing but an old pair of comfy boxers.

That’s why, when I was given the opportunity to create my first public-art piece– a utility box– a few weeks ago, it felt strange– and a bit unsettling– to suddenly plop myself and all my painting supplies into the middle of a very busy four-way-stoplight intersection at Long Beach Boulevard and Wardlow Road. Plus, I had to wear pants.

I’m not a shy artist (or person) by any means, but I guess I’m so accustomed to working at home, alone, half-naked that I felt like a fish in a bowl (yet also one out of water) and somewhat vulnerable, on this street corner that gets a really high volume of traffic.

However, now that I’m a few weeks in, and I’ve cleaned, sanded, recleaned, primed and finished the painting on one side of the box, I’m viewing my work on it as time that I look forward to. Although I initially feared that the constant attention from hundreds of drivers and passengers sitting at red lights would possibly have a detrimental effect on my ability to work, I now realize the opposite is true. Knowing that I’m being watched actually forces me to really rise to the opportunity. Although I still have music in my ears while I’m painting the box, a few passersby have managed to grab my attention, to: compliment my creation that features dogs on bikes; ask me if I have an Instagram account (I do– @artistcorybilicko); ask me if I’m being compensated for my work (I am– through the generosity of the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association); ask me how much time I’ve spent on it (about 14 hours total thus far); or to offer me another artistic opportunity.

That’s the great thing about creating public art; it’s not just about making something for all to enjoy– I’m out in the public realm, and those passing see THOUGHTS page 10

April 27, 2018

Walking through Dublin Airport again was like retracing old steps. Nearly a year ago, the airport was home to my four-hour layover, a detour for a studying-abroad trip to Spain.

This time, Dublin officially graduated from pit stop to destination. Along for the ride were my brother Angel and his girlfriend Brittany, both who– spoiler alert– were promoted to the life-changing role of “fiancé” during the trip at a wonderful, duck-filled and green park known as St. Stephen’s Green.

In our week-long stay in early April in the land of clovers, we explored Ireland and Northern Ireland’s respective capitals– Dublin and Belfast. And, as one of the Dublin folk described it in typical Irish fashion, the week’s weather was filled Belfast City Hall, located in Northern Ireland with nothing but “[insert expletive here] rain 24/7.” es. Just as the experience was in The more I’ve explored the Unit- Spain and Italy, Ireland is no exed States’ eastern neighbor, the ception to the unspoken “the street more familiar I’ve become with light doesn’t decide when I cross Europe’s vintage architecture and the street, I do” rule. You’ll find that city layout. The cities are designed crossing the street has been reduced in a way that encourages walking– to a game of Frogger, in which you mapped out in what I found to be an have to look both ways before you almost diagonal-like fashion and a cross the street and run (hop) like contrast to, say, Los Angeles, where mad to make it to the other side. the thought of walking anywhere Street lights are simply there for is unfathomable. Everything in the courtesy. The opposite is true for United States is spread out, where- drivers. “Oh, I’m going on green as Europe seems to be more con- whether there are people in my way densed. or not,” I can imagine them saying.

Of course, being a European pe- If you are on the road when you destrian presents its own challeng- shouldn’t be, brace for impact, lad.

Courtesy Cory Bilicko

A passerby took this photo of me when I was about halfway through painting the first side of the utility box on the corner of Long Beach Boulevard and Wardlow Road.

Photos by Denny Cristales | Signal Tribune

A fascination of mine when traveling internationally has been the language. There is no true language barrier in Ireland– they speak English– but the root of distinction is in the accents and word choice.

In two separate instances, Irish residents had to correct my use of the words “chips” and “crackers,” which in this case would be referred to as “crisps” and “biscuits.” Chips are French fries. I could practically feel the judgment in their tone as they corrected me, almost as if I insulted their heritage and proved myself unworthy of all things Irish in one fell swoop.

The night life is what you would expect– rowdy, but not the stereotypical “Conor McGregor assaulting a bus full of people” rowdy. As a matter of fact, most Irelanders– and Europeans– are sweethearts. In one Dublin pub, the Merchant’s Arch, the three of us sang our hearts out to a cover band’s rendition of “Sweet Caroline,” as one older man took turns hooking all of our arms and prancing in circles around the dance floor.

Humorously, during breakfast one morning at our Belfast hotel’s restaurant, my brother was offering me a taste of his dessert. Already satisfied, I had but merely a sliver of some of his muffin,

A view of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1191 in Dublin, Ireland

see IRELAND page 11

S IGNA L T R I BU N E PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Barbie Ellisen Katherine Green Sharon McLucas

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Stephen M. Strichart STAFF WRITERS

CJ Dablo Anita W. Harris

MANAGING EDITOR

Cory Bilicko

CULTURE WRITERS

Adam Buchsbaum Rachael Rifkin

ONLINE EDITOR

Denny Cristales EDITORIAL INTERN

Izzie Hallock

DESIGN EDITOR

Sebastian Echeverry COLUMNISTS

Claudine Burnett Blair Cohn

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 Wednesday before desired publication date. The Signal Tribune reserves the right to edit l­etters for grammar, language and space requirements. Letters must be 500 words or fewer. 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 ­publications or otherwise presented in a public forum. Letters to the editor and commentaries are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Signal Tribune or its staff. Although the editorial staff will attempt to verify and/or correct i­nformation when possible, letters to the editor and commentaries are opinions, and readers should not assume that they are statements of fact. Letter-writers will be identified by their professional titles or affiliations when, and only when, the editorial staff deems it relevant and/or to provide context to the letter. We do not run letters to the editor submitted by individuals who have declared their candidacies for public office in upcoming races. This policy was put in place because, to be fair, if we publish one, we would have to publish all letters submitted by all candidates. The volume would no doubt eliminate space for letters submitted by other readers. Instead, we agree to interview candidates and print stories about political races in an objective manner and offer very reasonable advertising rates for those candidates who wish to purchase ads. The Signal Tribune is published each Friday with a circulation of 30,000. Yearly subscriptions are available for $50.

1399 E. 28th St., Signal Hill, CA 90755 (562) 595-7900 www.signaltribune.com newspaper@signaltribune.com

COMMUNITY

April 27, 2018

Rick Rackers accepting applications for new membership Rick Rackers, one of four auxiliaries of Assistance League of Long Beach, is now accepting applications for membership for 2018-19. Rick Rackers, which recently celebrated its 75th year, oversees Operation School Bell, for which, from September to May, member volunteers work to ensure that Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) students in need are provided with school uniforms, socks, undergarments, backpacks and age-appropriate school supplies.

Several corporations, including UPS, TABAC, City National Bank, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California, Andeavor and Union Pacific, have partnered with Assistance League of Long Beach to help provide the necessities, and their employees often work alongside Rick Rackers members to size students and deliver backpacks and uniforms to the schools.

Members of Rick Rackers are asked to volunteer 32 hours per year and attend monthly meetings the first Tuesday morning of each month. In addition, members support fundraisers and have the option to attend social outings and enrichment opportunities. Rick Rackers holds an annual event, Woman of the Year, in early February.

Those interested in exploring membership should contact Elizabeth Borsting, membership chair, at (562) 856-9292 or elizabeth@borstingpr.com.

More Information ALLB.org

Signal Tribune

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AROUND TOWN SEW WHAT? What Meeting Who Hosted by the Long Beach Chapter of the Embroiderers Guild of America, Inc. When Friday, April 27 at 11am Where Long Beach City College, 1305 E. PCH More Info Expert Margery Williams will explain the “Cecilia” technique. Email Christa Barry at barrychen99@gmail.com.

OLDIES BUT GOODIES What Concert Who Hosted by Cruisin’ Oldies Concert When Friday, April 27 from 1pm to 3pm Where Grand Ballroom at Petroleum Club Long Beach, 3636 Linden Ave. More Info Instructors will be available for free dance lessons and tips. Tickets cost $14 to $19 and can be purchased through tinyurl.com/ydff3yum.

Refreshments will be provided. Email Nancy Tubbs at nancy_tubbs@fullcalendar.com.

ANOTHER MAN’S TREASURE What Garage sale Who Hosted by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) When Saturday, April 28 at 7am to noon Where 6010 Stearns St. More Info Baked goods and plants will be available for purchase. Money raised will go towards Alzheimer’s research. Email Sharon Bergeron at sharon. bergeron@gmail.com.

TAKE IT BACK What Pharmaceutical drop-off event Who Hosted by Long Beach Medical Center When Saturday, April 28 from 10am to 2pm Where 2801 Atlantic Ave. More Info Representatives from MemorialCare, the Long Beach Police Department and the Los Angeles County Drug Enforcement Administration will collect expired pharmaceutical drugs. Email Cayla Wahl at cwahl@memorialcare.org.

JOIN IN What Meeting Who Hosted by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) When Saturday, May 5 from 2pm to 4pm Where Park Estates More Info During the meeting, attendees will learn about activities and opportunities AAUW members participate in. For the specific location, email Gail Morrison at gail7go@gmail.com.

GREEN THUMBS What Plant sale and open house Who Hosted by the Horticulture Department at Long Beach City College (LBCC) When Friday, May 11 and Saturday, May 12 from 9am to 4pm Where 1305 E. PCH More Info The sale will feature metal garden art created by LBCC’s Fabrication and Welding Club, water-wise plants and vegetables and butterfly-friendly plants. An art table will also be available for children. Call (562) 938-3086.

SPOKES FOLKS What Cycling fundraiser Who Hosted by Millers Children’s and Women’s Hospital When Saturday, May 12 at 6am Where Shoreline Drive and Linden Avenue More Info There are multiple routes to take during the event including 30 miles, 62 miles, 100 miles and a free 5-mile Family Fun Ride. Food trucks and a beer garden will be available. Email Lisette Madrid at LMadrid@memorialcare.org.

A LIFETIME OF LEARNING What Presentations on Aging Issues Who Sponsored by Long Beach City College Senior Studies Lifetime Learning Center When Mondays in May and June, from 11am to 12:30pm Where Lifetime Learning Center, room QQ 122, at the LBCC Pacific Coast Campus off of Walnut EGGS WITH THE ELKS Avenue What Monthly breakfast More Info The dates will be: May 14, “Making the Who Hosted by Elks Lodge #888 Most of Your Doctor Visits”; May 21, “Home SafeWhen Sunday, April 29 from 8am to 11:30am ty and Fall Prevention” by the LBFD Fire AmbassaWhere 16426 Bellflower Blvd. dors; June 4, “Food Finders, Rescuing Food, ReducMore Info The cost is $7 per person and includes ing Hunger and Volunteering”; June 11, “Chronic eggs to order, full breakfast buffet, waffles with top- Diseases”; and June 18, “Alzheimer’s Update.” pings, coffee, orange juice and drink specials at the RSVP to Theresa Brunella at (562) 938-3047. The bar. Email elkslodge888@outlook.com.

Lifetime Learning Program is a nonprofit organization that operates under the LBCC Foundation.

LOOKING FORWARD Emailtbrunella@lbcc.edu.

What Panel discussion Who Hosted by the Long Beach U.S. Veterans Af- CARING ABOUT YOUR HEALTH fairs Department What Free lecture When Friday, May 4 at 9am Who Hosted by the Long Beach Medical Center Where 2001 River Ave. When Tuesday, May 15 from 5pm to 7pm More Info Panelists will discuss education, net- Where Old Ranch Country Club, 3901 Lampson working and career-building. Email Val Lerch at Ave. vallerch@gmail.com.

More Info Local experts will discuss a patient-centric approach for atrial fibrillation. Call 1.800.MEIN HONOR OF ELLEN MORIAL to register.

What The Annual Ellen Ward Community Yard Sale PAGE-TURNERS Who Hosted by the City of Signal Hill What Book club When Saturday, May 5 from 8am to noon Who Hosted by the BKBIA Where Jessie Nelson Circle at Signal Hill Park, When Wednesday, May 16 at 7pm 2175 Cherry Ave. Where Elise’s Tea Room, 3924 Atlantic Ave. More Info Residents of Signal Hill and surrounding More Info Attendees will discuss the novel Never areas will have the opportunity to purchase items on Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro. Email info@bixbydisplay. Admission is free. Call (562) 989-7330. knollsinfo.com.

LBCC oversight committee seeking new member The Long Beach Community College District (LBCCD) Citizens’ Oversight Committee (COC), which oversees district bond projects, is seeking a new member to represent the community-at-large. Applications are being accepted through Friday, May 18.

“We are committed to ensuring that our community maintains the highest level of trust in the use of voter-approved bond funds,” said LBCC Superintendent-President Reagan F. Romali. “We encourage our community members to apply and play an important role in the oversight of our bond projects.”

Applicants must be at least 18

years of age and reside within the LBCCD boundary, which includes the cities of Long Beach, Signal Hill, Lakewood and Avalon.

The LBCCD Board of Trustees will be asked to approve the new member at its June meeting. The term of service for the new appointee is July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2020. The COC has two mandatory meetings each year and may schedule others as needed. Upcoming meeting dates are Aug. 27, 2018 and Jan. 28, 2019.

The COC oversees both Measure E, a $440-million bond measure approved by the voters in 2008, and Measure LB, an $850-million bond

measure approved by the voters in 2016. Funds are used exclusively for the construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation or replacement of LBCCD facilities, or the acquisition or lease of real property for use by the district.

Complete information about the bond measures, the COC and the application form can be found at lbcc. edu/citizens-oversight-committee.

Community members can call (562) 938-4540 with questions.

Source: LBCC

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Signal Tribune

NEWS

When ‘disaster’ strikes

April 27, 2018

Mandatory triennial disaster-preparedness drill at LGB showcases emergency-response personnel, equipment.

Sebastian Echeverry Staff Writer

Long Beach Airport (LGB) officials hosted an emergency drill last week on the local airstrip to test and train first responders to be prepared in the event of a significant disaster.

The Federal Aviation Administration requires disaster-preparedness exercises to be conducted every three years. The drill tested the speed and effectiveness of emergency personnel and LGB staff in the event of an aircraft accident. Airport-industry experts served as evaluators along with oversight from FAA officials.

There is no scoring system that the emergency units must adhere to, according to airport spokesperson Cassie Chauvel. Instead, the evaluators provide comments and observations on the effectiveness of the rescue teams.

In this year’s mock scenario, a C-17 Globemaster III military aircraft experienced a fiery crash landing at the airport.

At the start of the drill, blaring sirens positioned atop the LGB fire department building signaled that a dire situation was taking place on the airstrip. Several emergency vehicles emerged from the fire department’s garage and rushed toward the military craft.

The loading ramp located under the tail of the plane was lowered,

and several volunteers, acting as victims, stumbled out and made their way toward the firefighters and paramedics. The scene was chaotic. Volunteers playing victims wore make-up to simulate serious, minor or fatal injuries.

A task force consisting of police, fire, medical and military units tended to at least 100 victims of the simulated crash using real equipment and emergency vehicles.

The drill did not interrupt regularly scheduled commercial flights as it unfolded on the airstrip for approximately two hours.

Commercial airports, such as LGB, must hold such an emergency-drill event every three years to maintain their Part 139 Airport Certification, which allows commercial flights to operate out of the airport, according to a press release from the City.

“All commercial airports that have passenger services have to do an annual exercise,” Long Beach Airport Director Jess Romo told the Signal Tribune.

Romo explained that every three years, the drill has to be conducted live and in front of the media.

“What [the evaluators] do is they, over many months of planning, create a scenario of an emergency that occurs on the airfield in which the worthiness is tested of our firefighting group on the field– the Airport

Photos by Sebastian Echeverry | Signal Tribune

Victims of a simulated plane accident receive medical assistance from Long Beach firefighters and paramedics during a mandatory triennial drill at the Long Beach Airport on Friday, April 20. In this year’s mock scenario, a C-17 Globemaster III military aircraft experienced a fiery crash-landing at the airport. A task force consisting of police, fire, medical and military units tended to at least 100 victims of the simulated crash using real equipment and emergency vehicles.

Rescue and Firefighting (ARF) unit– that protects aircraft and specifically protects passengers that will need assistance in the event of an incident on the field,” Romo said.

He added that the ARF coordinates with the Long Beach Fire De-

Long Beach Fire Department firefighters carry a person acting as an injured victim on a stretcher during an emergency-preparedness drill at the Long Beach Airport on Friday, April 20. The Federal Aviation Administration mandates and regulates the drill. Commercial airports must adhere to a live version of the drill every three years.

Saturday, May 5, 2018

partment off the airport, the Long Beach Police Department, LGB’s operations staff and other agencies such as hospitals.

Romo explained that during an emergency situation, there is only one person in charge of all the rescue operations. This form of leadership is called the Incident Command Structure, according to the airport director.

“There is one, single person that is in charge of the incident at any given time,” Romo said. “Now, it

can change. It can go from being fire to police to LGB operations.”

Long Beach Police Department Chief Robert Luna said the scenario reflects a real emergency that he prays will never happen, however, the department needs to be prepared in the event of a disaster.

“We want to make sure that anybody who flies to the Long Beach Airport understands that the people in this city, and this airport, are prepared for any contingency that may happen,” Luna said. ✦

A Long Beach Fire Department firefighter carries an injured victim of a simulated crash landing during a mandatory drill at the Long Beach Airport on Friday, April 20. Airport emergency drills are presented live every three years and are set to test emergency response teams in the event of a real disaster.

NEWS

April 27, 2018

Signal Tribune

7

JetBlue announces schedule changes, new routes; multiple carriers show interest in new available slots

Photo by Jeff Walters

Dr. Chris Lowe (left), director of Long Beach State University’s Shark Lab, and Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell on the floor of the California Assembly on April 24

O’Donnell bill to fund research on increased shark activity moves forward Assembly Bill 2191, which seeks funding for research on the increasing number of shark sightings along the California coast, passed the Assembly Water, Parks & Wildlife Committee Tuesday.

Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell (D–Long Beach), who introduced the measure, said more sharks are seen along Long Beach’s coast now more than ever.

“As a parent and a teacher, our kids’ safety is my top priority,” O’Donnell said. “AB 2191 is about educating ourselves so we can keep our kids safe. The more we know about the behavior of the sharks along our coastline, the better prepared we can be at the beach and in the water.”

O’Donnell recently partnered with California State University Long Beach’s Shark Lab to hold Shark Day, a public informational event at the university. The event highlighted the Shark Lab’s work monitoring and studying sharks, which would be eligible for funding through AB 2191.

CSULB’s Shark Lab Director Dr. Chris Lowe, previously featured on the Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, gave a special presentation at Shark Day and shared his expertise at the hearing for AB 2191.

“We are seeing unprecedented numbers of juvenile white sharks hanging out in the surfline alongside swimmers, surfers, paddle boarders and others who recreate in the ocean,” Dr. Lowe said. “This is prompting more sightings, warnings and closures at local beaches than in recent memory. While this is alarming for beachgoers, this influx– coupled with better technology– is a perfect opportunity for us to find out why these sharks are staying closer Expires 4-27-18 5-11-18 to shore for longer periods as they grow bigger. Unfortunately, we don’t have the funding to keep pace with the demand for tags and monitoring.

This is jeopardizing our efforts to learn about white shark behavior and help lifeguards and law-enforcement better inform the public about beach safety.”

The bill now moves to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Source: O’Donnell’s office

Obituary Denise Damrow July 12, 1952 - April 19, 2018

D

Born in Chicago, Illinois

enise was a resident in Signal Hill for more than 35 years. She generously served as a Signal Hill Parks & Recreation Commissioner from 1997 to 2009 and over the years was active in many community organizations including Girl Scouts of America, the Salvation Army, Signal Hill Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Signal Hill Cultural Arts (FOSHCA), Friends of the Signal Hill Library (FOSHL), and the Signal Hill Historical Society.

Services will be held at Salvation Army Chapel Friday, April 27, 2018 at 10:30am 3000 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Captain Sergio Garcia will officiate Luncheon following services: 2325 Promontory Drive/Skyline, Signal Hill Call 562-961-8735 for entry

File photo

Long Beach Airport (pictured) will see changes in JetBlue’s flight schedule and will include two new seasonal destinations that will take effect later this year.

Long Beach Airport (LGB) will see changes in JetBlue’s flight schedule and will include two new seasonal destinations that will take effect in late 2018.

JetBlue’s revised schedule at LGB includes a reduction in frequencies to select markets in the Bay Area, an additional daytime flight to Boston starting Sept. 5 and seasonal service to Bozeman, Montana and Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Both of these markets will be served twice weekly beginning December 2018. The changes involving frequency reductions are expected to occur in fall 2018, and no existing destinations are planned for reduction.

“We are grateful for our long partnership with JetBlue at Long Beach Airport,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “Despite their changes in service, the future looks great for the airport. We have strong interest to fill those slots from multiple carriers.”

Long Beach officials said JetBlue’s decision was not entirely a surprise.

A number of the markets served have presented a challenge to achieve or maintain profitability under present service models, and airlines are continually adjusting when needed to be as profitable as possible, according to city officials.

LGB has received much interest in additional flight slots from other carriers and already has an established waiting list, officials said, adding that LGB anticipates that the soon-to-be available slots will be filled quickly.

Airlines currently on the waiting list include Delta, Southwest and Hawaiian.

This will allow the City to diversify its airport business model.

“The decision by JetBlue was not unexpected, and we respect decisions airlines make to ensure they are best positioned in a market, especially one that is competitive,” said Airport Director Jess L. Romo. “We see this as an opportunity to create a better balance among the air carriers serving Long Beach Airport and one that will maintain our existing service, and in fact will likely lead to new markets in the very near future.”

Allocation of flight slots that become available is managed through a process to ensure transparency, according to officials. Slots that become available are offered to carriers who have previously requested placement on the list. In turn from top to bottom, incumbent carriers are offered one slot, and the process repeats until all slots are allocated or until demand is satisfied.

Currently, LGB believes demand exceeds supply, and, as a result, available slots will quickly be filled, officials said.

In a press release this week, JetBlue announced it is advancing its West Coast strategy following its successful expansion in new markets like San Diego, Las Vegas and Seattle over the past year.

“The latest series of network enhancements is designed to better meet the needs of coast-to-coast travelers facing limited competition and– with the most legroom in coach, unlimited free snacks and complimentary Fly-Fi high-speed Internet, live television and movies– plays to JetBlue’s strength as a favorite choice for transcontinental travel.”

The enhancements bring a number of schedule changes for the airline in 2018, including “refining its Long Beach, Calif. schedule to better meet the needs of the market.”

In addition to adding Steamboat Springs and Bozeman flights in Long Beach, as well as introducing daylight Boston service, JetBlue will offer up to 23 daily flights, which is in line with service levels JetBlue offered in 2016, according to the airline.

JetBlue will revise flight frequencies on the following Long Beach routes starting Sept. 5, 2018: • Las Vegas’s McCarran International Airport– three times daily • Oakland International Airport – twice-daily service • Portland International Airport– once-daily service • Salt Lake City International Airport– up to three times daily • San Francisco International Airport– twice daily • San José International Airport – twice daily • Seattle–Tacoma International Airport– once daily JetBlue will continue to offer its current frequencies of nonstop service between Long Beach and New York-JFK, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), Reno–Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF), according to the airline.

“Revising our schedule allows us to offer customers new destinations, capitalize on our leadership position in transcontinental flying and advance our margin commitments in Long Beach where certain flying constraints have created challenges,” said Marty St. George, executive vice president, commercial and planning for JetBlue.

Sources: City of LB, JetBlue

8

A 27, 2018 PAMPER YOUR PETS 29th America’s Family Pet Expo to feature new sea-lion show in addition to returning favorites Signal Tribune

[Submitted by the World Pet Association]

pril

dreds of common and rare species of reptiles such as lizards, snakes and spiders. Plus, the ever-popular Splash Dogs and The Great American Petting Zoo, family fun the whole family will enjoy.

In advance of America’s Family Pet Expo, kids can design and create a 10-gallon aquarium in the Kid’s Aquarium Contest. The aquariums will be on display throughout America’s Family Pet Expo and are judged according to age group and two categories– Natural and Creative. Also, for the aquatic enthusiast is the Aquascaping Contest, where contestants will compete to make the most beautiful and natural underwater environment in a small aquarium.

Pet Adoptions will be handled onsite for those looking for that perfect animal addition to the family. There will be hundreds of animals hoping to find their “furever home” from local community partner organizations at the Pet Expo.

General admission is $15; seniors 60 and over

America’s Family Pet Expo will return to the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, 88 Fair Dr., from Friday, April 27 to Sunday, April 29. The annual family-friendly event features all creatures cute and cuddly, furry, feathered and scaled of all sizes, shapes and colors.

“Entering our 29th year, America’s Family Pet Expo is the destination for pet lovers, offering education on responsible pet care, entertainment and pet adoptions. We couldn’t be prouder of the pet-loving community we have in Southern California, making America’s Family Pet Expo the ultimate destination for all pet lovers,” said Jacinthe Moreau, president of the World Pet Association, producer of the America’s Family Pet Expo. “As we have grown over the years, the show has progressed to include the best in pet ownership and care. America’s Family Pet Expo offers animal adoptions, a variety of educational presentations, family fun pet entertainment, and exhibitors offering show specials and while showcasing the latest and greatest in pet products.”

New to America’s Family Pet Expo for 2018 is the Sea Lion Splash Show– a unique mobile aquatic experience combining both marine fun and environmental education. Sea Lion Splash Show features rescued sea lions from both California and South America. Ready to thrill and excite an audience of all ages, the sea lions balance balls, shoot hoops, dance, shake their flippers and even do a handstand or two.

Returning to the 2018 America’s Family Pet Expo will be The Catit Playground. This popular interactive activity brings a close-up view for guests to watch charming adoptable cats and kittens to see how they interact with different toys and people. This is a great atmosphere for guests to learn all about cats and to gain a little insight into “Catitude.”

America’s Family Pet Expo will Courtesy World Pet Association include on-site cooking demonstra- New to America’s Family Pet Expo for 2018 is the Sea Lion Splash Show– a tions. Hosted by JustFoodForDogs, unique mobile aquatic experience combining both marine fun and environthe “Find Out What’s Cooking” talks mental education. Sea Lion Splash Show features rescued sea lions from both will feature lessons on how to create California and South America. homemade meals to promote optimal health, longevity and well-being for dogs.

Returning favorites to America’s Family Pet Expo include Repticon reptile show and sale, offering hun-

are $13. Children 6 to 12 are $10. Children 5 years and under are free. Active and retired military are admitted free with ID. Show hours: Friday 10am to 6pm; Saturday 10am to 7pm; and Sunday 10am to 6pm.

The facility charges $8 for parking. Attendees must leave all pets at home.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit PetExpoOC.org.

APRIL 27, 28 & 29

America’s Family

PET EXPO OC Fair & Event Center

Avoid The Lines! Buy Tickets At:

PetExpoOC.org

King

Until the end of April, you can get a King for just a few coins of the kingdom!

This month, there’s a Pittie Party at the P.D. Pitchford Companion Animal Village, and potential adopters may pay as little as $1 or as much as $1,000,000 to adopt King or any of his pitbull or pit-bull-mix subjects!

King, found as a stray, is 6 years old and loves a walk around the castle moat or a romp with little princes and princesses. Meet his majesty on the shelter side of the Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A551949.

(The usual suspects contributed to this rescue)