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Blue whale off the coast of Long Beach See page 7

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Photo by Diana Lejins

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

VoL. 34 No. 10

August 10, 2012

Will J. Reid Scout Park sold Environmental documents for proposed to Trust for Public Land, expansion of LB Freeway facing public scrutiny will remain public use Your Weekly Community Newspaper

Nick Diamantides Staff Writer

Courtesy Boy Scouts LB Area Council

Boy Scouts “tug of war” match at Will J. Reid Park

Michelle Lecours Staff Writer

After years of fielding private developers’ interests in Will J. Reid Park, the Boy Scouts of America Long Beach Area Council (LBAC) is now guaranteeing nonstop public use by selling to the Trust for Public Land.

“We’ve been exploring the possibility of the sale for two and a half years now,” said Albert Guerra, vice president of Marketing for Long Beach Area Council.

Guerra, who is also a commissioner for Long Beach Parks, Recreation & Marine, said preserving the property as public use in the sale was a top priority to the Council.

“Several board members like (me) … were not very excited at all about the idea of turning this into nonopen-space park property,” Guerra said. “We wanted to sell the property to someone who will maintain it as open space.

“We started out with a real-estate broker in the city to help us evaluate the property,” said Guerra. “We started looking at some of the opportunities that were approaching us through that relationship.” But the various developers that expressed

interest proposed exploiting the land for apartment buildings, senior housing, and alternative rezoning uses.

The Council decided to sell the property to The Trust for Public Land, an organization not in the development business but serves as a holding agency to take over the role as Council-advocate in preserving the open space.

“We are selling the property to them,” Guerra said. “They’re holding the property until they can find the right public partnership or entity (to purchase) it from them … with the mantra that it continues to be used as public space, as public land.”

According to its website, “The Trust for Public Land works nationwide to help agencies and communities conserve land for public use and public benefit.” In doing so, they will search to find a buyer who will maintain the community use of the property.

The Water Replenishment District may be interested in acquiring the land, said Robb Whitaker, WRD’s general manager, in an email to the Signal Tribune. “We are see PARK page 10

Fifteen or so years from today, a major section of the 710 Freeway might have five lanes in each direction plus a four-lane elevated corridor to be used exclusively by electric-powered 18-wheelers. Those are two of the options now being contemplated by state and local governmental officials and consultants charged with formulating a plan to modernize the 710. In the past few weeks, residents in cities along the 710 corridor have attended meetings to learn about alternative plans to improve the freeway, which was built in the 1950s.

According to a fact sheet recently distributed by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), construction on the project probably won’t begin until 2020, but studies and discussions pertaining to the freeway have been going on intermittently for several years. In 1999, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and Metro hosted a series of meetings with residents and local government officials to find out what kinds of changes the public wanted for the 710. During those meetings, it was determined that air pollution, with its associated health risks, and traffic congestion were the two overriding concerns of the major-

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ity of residents.

On June 29 of this year, approximately 13 years after the process began, and after many more meetings and studies, Caltrans and Metro released to the public a 1400-page draft environmental impact report/environmental impact statement (EIR/EIS) on proposed alternatives for

the expansion and improvement of the freeway. Caltrans will receive written or electronic comments on the plans until Aug. 29.

This week, in a series of public hearings, the agencies also received spoken comments from members of

Services Director Pilar AlcivarMcCoy told the City Council at last Monday’s meeting. She said that most people only require an explanation of the rules.

“However,” the community services director added, “sometimes we do need some backup, and so this would allow us and would allow the police department tools to manage those people who don’t comply and are not cooperative.”

Alcivar-McCoy presented proposed changes to the city’s code to the Council Monday. One staffrecommended update would prohibit charcoal except in the permanent barbecues stationed near the picnic shelters, but Alcivar-McCoy explained that the

City would allow park-goers to use personal barbecues that use bottled gas if they have a permit from the Community Services Department.

The proposed changes also cover which groups will need a permit for regular use. If the code changes are fully approved, sports-league organizers will need to obtain a permit. Will regular outdoor yoga classes or boot camps held at the park need a permit? If the changes are approved, yes.

Permit fees for sports teams that use Spud Field for activities like games and practices have been established, but park permit fees for regularly held, outdoor

Signal Hill park regulations may soon get an update

CJ Dablo Staff Writer

At Monday’s Signal Hill City Council meeting, the director of the community services department recounted the few mishaps in the city’s green spaces to explain why the municipal codes that govern parks are under review. There was that one time when people dumped hot coal near a tree, setting it on fire. Also, the grass at Discovery Well Park was regularly getting torn up after sports leagues used them repeatedly for their team practices. The public works department had to re-seed the area and renovate it.

Generally speaking, most of the people who use the Signal Hill parks are cooperative, Community

CELEBRATING 35YEARS OF EXCELLENCE Weekly Weather Forecast Come join us!

Nick Diamantides/Signal Tribune

Elizabeth Mahoney, URS senior transportation manager, told the audience that using zero-emissions trucks on an elevated freight corridor would significantly reduce cancer risks associated with air pollution in areas near the 710 Freeway.

August 10-14, 2012

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

91°

91°

84°

81°

85°

Partly Cloudy Lo 70°

Partly Cloudy Lo 68°

Mostly Sunny Lo 69°

Mostly Sunny Lo 68°

Mostly Sunny Lo 66°

This week’s Weekly Weather Forecast sponsored by:

see PARK page 14

see COUNCIL page 5

2 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

Interactive simulation designed to help residents understand City of LB’s budget complexities

The City of Long Beach has launched the Long Beach Budget Challenge, an interactive online simulation for residents to better understand the complexities and trade-offs involved in the budget process.

“Long Beach can no longer provide the levels of service its residents have come to expect, and some very difficult decisions must be made,” Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster said. “The Long Beach Budget Challenge exercise lets residents ‘balance’ the City’s budget, by deciding how much money to spend for public works, libraries, parks and recreation, public safety, and other city services– and how to pay for them.”

The Budget Challenge is designed to give residents a general perspective of the budget process and the public policy challenges involved in balancing a budget, as well as help to understand how different preferences impact other service areas. The choices provided in the Budget Challenge are illustrative and broadly reflect the types of services that may be impacted in the effort to balance the Fiscal Year 2013 Budget. Participants will be able to see how their choices compare to those of other participants. The cumulative results of the Budget Challenge will be reviewed as part of the budget development process. However, the results should not be considered to be representative of the public at large since the Budget Challenge is not a formal survey.

Over the last decade, year after year, General Fund revenues have not been sufficient to continue the service levels from the preceding

year, in large part because of the general economy, which affects tax revenues, and by increasing costs, including employee costs.

Unlike the federal government, the City of Long Beach must adopt a balanced budget every year. This means that solutions must be found to bridge the gap between revenues and expenditures.

In Fiscal Year 2013, the City faces a $17.2 million General Fund deficit. The General Fund supports most traditional city services, such as police, fire, parks and recreation, and libraries. In addition to the current revenue shortfall, an estimated $17.3 million more will need to be cut from the General Fund over the next two years if current services are sustained.

This is the first time the City has conducted an online budget simulation. This approach was requested by the City Council on May 1 in an agenda item brought forward by 5th District Councilmember Gerrie Schipske and former 8th District Councilmember Rae Gabelich.

To take the Budget Challenge, visit longbeach.gov/budgetchallenge, or visit the City’s Facebook page at facebook.com/CityofLongBeachCA .

The Fiscal Year 2013 budget goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2012.

Visit longbeach.gov for more information about the budget, including an easy-to-read Community Budget Book, the complete Proposed Budget, the Mayor's Recommendations, information about proportionate share and a Budget calendar.

Source: City of LB

NEWS

AUGUST 10, 2012

EYE ON CRIME Crimes reported by LBPD Council Districts 6, 7 & 8

Wednesday, Aug. 1 Residential burglary 12:30pm– 1000 block of E. 37th Street

Robbery (person) 8pm– 2100 block of Linden Avenue Thursday, Aug. 2 Auto burglary 1:02am– 200 block of W. Pacific Coast Highway

Residential burglary 1:50pm– 3200 block of Eucalyptus Avenue

Friday, Aug. 3 Auto burglary 1am– 2200 block of Maine Avenue Auto burglary 1:10pm– 2700 block of Chestnut Avenue

Sunday, Aug. 5 Residential burglary (garage) 2pm– 3200 block of Maine Avenue

Monday, Aug. 6 Battery 1am– E. Pacific Coast Highway and Walnut Avenue Crimes reported by SHPD Citywide

Wednesday, Aug. 1 Petty theft 2:01pm– 900 block of E. 33rd Street Suspect in custody.

Non-injury hit-and-run 2:20pm– 1900 block of Stanley Avenue

Thursday, Aug. 2 Identity theft 7:45am– 900 block of W. Willow Street

Burglary 2:27pm– 3000 block of California Avenue

Burglary (commercial shoplifting) 7:55pm– 3000 block of California Avenue

Friday, Aug. 3 DUI alcohol/drugs 1:49am– E. 28th Street and Cherry Avenue Suspect in custody.

Stolen vehicle 7:36am– 2900 block of Cherry Avenue

Identity theft 8:44am– E. Wardlow Road and Orange Avenue

Stolen vehicle 2:31pm– Cherry Avenue and E. Pacific Coast Highway

Burglary 5:13pm– 1900 block of Temple Avenue

Saturday, Aug. 4 Residential burglary 12:40pm– 1800 block of Temple Avenue Named suspect.

Stolen vehicle 5:37pm– 700 block of E. Spring Street

Sunday, Aug. 5 DUI (alcohol– 0.08 percent) 1:29am– E. Pacific Coast Highway and Walnut Avenue Suspect in custody.

Auto burglary 10:30am– 1000 block of E. 32nd Street

Auto burglary 7:16pm– 2400 block of California Avenue

Monday, Aug. 6 Grand theft (property) 9am– 2700 block of Cherry Avenue

Residential burglary 1pm– 2100 block of Crescent Drive

Non-injury hit-and-run 4:44pm– 1600 block of W. Willow Street

Tuesday, Aug. 7 Auto burglary 7am– 2200 block of E. Willow Street

Stolen vehicle 9:16am– 2700 block of St. Louis Avenue

Terrorist threat 3:02pm– 2100 block of Cherry Avenue

Auto burglary 6:07pm– 2100 block of E. Willow Street

Petty theft 9:07pm– 900 block of E. 33rd Street Suspect cited.

Wednesday, Aug. 8 Bringing drugs into prison 2:35am– E. Pacific Coast Highway and Gardenia Avenue Suspect in custody.

Unauthorized use of ID to obtain credit/goods Noon– 2300 block of Ocean View Drive

NEWS

Police trying to locate suspect wanted for murder of his live-in girlfriend AUGUST 10, 2012

The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) is asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect wanted in connection with the murder of his live-in girlfriend, who was the mother of his three children.

On Saturday, Aug. 4, at approximately 10:35pm, LBPD officers responded to a mobile-home park in the 6400 block of Atlantic Avenue, regarding a shooting.

Once on scene, they discovered the body of 22-year-old Eleonora Rivera Hidalgo inside a vehicle parked at a residence within the park. Hidalgo, who had sustained a gunshot wound to her upper torso, was being treated by witnesses. She was transported to a local hospital by paramedics and pronounced deceased shortly after arriving.

The preliminary investigation revealed that prior to the shooting, the victim and suspect were arguing inside the vehicle that was parked outside their home. Witnesses say that, when they heard gunshots, they went outside to check on the couple and found the injured victim in the vehicle.

As the suspect fled, he attempted to steal an unoccupied vehicle and was last seen

jumping over a fence in the complex before disappearing from the area and remains outstanding.

The victim and suspect lived together at the location and shared three children, ages 7, 6, and 2, who are now in the care of family. The suspect is identified as 24year-old Marcos Gustavo Zermeno, a male Hispanic, 5’6” tall and 170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. Zermeno is a documented gang member and has the following tattoos: one on the lower-right area of his neck that reads “Eleonora;” a collage of skulls on his right shoulder; and the word “Compton” on his right forearm.

Detectives believe there is a possibility he may try to flee to Mexico.

The suspect should be considered armed and dangerous and at no time should anyone attempt to approach or detain him. Anyone who may have information regarding his whereabouts is asked to call the Long Beach Police Communications Center at (562) 435-6711. For an immediate police response call 9-1-1.

Anonymous tips may be submitted via text or web by visiting tipsoft.com . Any-

On Wednesday, Aug. 8, at approximately 1am, Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) officers responded to a robbery call at a 24-hour retail store in the 4400 block of Atlantic Avenue that resulted in the fatal shooting of one suspect, the injuring of a second, and a third suspect remaining outstanding.

The preliminary investigation revealed that, as officers were responding to the robbery call, they observed a “suspicious” vehicle in a nearby alley.

As an officer began following the vehicle, described as a grey Toyota Camry, the vehicle fled at a high rate of speed, and officers pursued it. Residents and officers heard gunfire, and pursuing officers believed they were being fired upon by the suspects. The suspect vehicle continued fleeing until striking a parked vehicle in the area of Cerritos Avenue and La Dera Drive. One suspect fled from the vehicle and into the neighborhood. The officers confronted the remaining suspects, resulting in an officer-involved shooting.

Gunfire struck the upper body of

one suspect, who was then determined deceased at the scene. A second suspect was struck in the lower body and transported to a local hospital, where he was listed in stable condition. A third suspect fled on foot into the neighborhood, and officers established a perimeter from San Antonio Drive to Carson Street and from Orange Avenue to California Avenue. The SWAT team was activated, and K-9 and the police helicopter “Fox” also responded to assist in the search for the suspect. After several hours of searching, the third suspect was not located. The perimeter was broken down at approximately 1pm, and only the crime scene areas remained closed.

Police determined that currency had been taken during the robbery and that an adult female had been robbed in the parking lot prior to the suspects fleeing.

No victims or officers were injured during the incident. When investigators began combing the crime scene, they did locate shell casings along the path the suspects had driven, and they also located one handgun at the scene of the

24-year-old Marcos Gustavo Zermeno, a male Hispanic, 5’6” tall and 170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes, is wanted by police for the murder of his live-in girlfriend.

one with information relating to the investigation should contact LBPD Homicide Detectives Mark McGuire and Greg Krabbe at (562) 570-7244.

Source: LBPD

officer-involved shooting.

The outstanding suspect was described as a black male in his 20s, with a medium height and a thin build, and was last seen wearing a longsleeved white shirt and dark colored camouflage shorts with a stripe at the bottom. Police say he should be considered armed and dangerous. Because of the ongoing investigation, information on the deceased and injured suspects is not being released at this time.

In addition to the LBPD’s investigation, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is also conducting an independent investigation, as is routine with all officer-involved shootings that occur in LA County.

Anyone who may have information regarding this incident is asked to call LBPD Homicide Detectives Hugo Cortez and Roger Zottneck at (562) 570-7244. Anonymous tips may be submitted via text or web by visiting tipsoft.com .

Source: LBPD

LBPD, SHPD plan DUI/drivers license checkpoints sions in Signal Hill have resulted in 15 injury crashes, harming 25 individuals.

“Deaths from drunk and drugimpaired driving are going down in California,” said Christopher J. Murphy, director of the California Office of Traffic Safety. “But that still means that hundreds of our friends, family and co-workers are killed each year, along with tens of thousands

3

THE CRYING GAME What Youth theater performance workshop Who Hosted by Public Theatre of Long Beach Where Bungalow Arts Building, 737 Pine Ave. When Monday through Friday from now until Aug. 19 from 3pm to 7pm More Info The workshop covers theater games, stagecraft, and vocal technique; it culminates with a two-day performance of comical melodrama Dogsbreath Deveraux, the Dastardly Doctor. Participation costs $125, and ages 10 to 17 are welcomed. Performances are Aug. 17 through 19. Visit publictheatrelb.org .

Suspect who fled from shooting still outstanding

Both the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) and the Signal Hill Police Department (SHPD) are planning checkpoints in the next two weekends to identify drivers who are impaired or driving without licenses.

The LBPD will be conducting a checkpoint to screen for impaired and unlicensed drivers Saturday, Aug. 11 from 7pm to 3am in the area of south Long Beach. According to a press release issued by the LBPD, checkpoints have proven to be an effective enforcement tool in reducing the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol-involved crashes, and research shows that crashes involving alcohol drop by an average of 20 percent when well-publicized checkpoints are conducted regularly.

Officers will be contacting drivers passing through the checkpoint for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. Officers will also check for proper licensing and will strive to delay motorists only momentarily, according to the press release, which also states that drivers caught driving impaired can expect jail, license suspension, insurance increases, fines, fees, “driving under the influence” (DUI) classes and other expenses that can exceed $10,000.

“Over the course of the past three years, DUI collisions have claimed 14 lives and resulted in 306 injury crashes harming 437 of our friends and neighbors,” said LBPD Sergeant Douglas Bender.

The SHPD Traffic Unit will be conducting a DUI/drivers license checkpoint on Saturday, Aug. 18 at Willow Street and Signal Parkway between the hours of 8pm and 2am.

Sgt. Russ Hefte of the SHPD said that in the last three years, DUI colli-

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

who are seriously injured. We must all continue to work together to bring an end to these tragedies. If you see a drunk driver, call 9-1-1.”

Funding for these checkpoints is provided by grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Sources: LBPD, SHPD

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RE: RECYCLING What Free electronic waste recycling event Who Hosted by the American Legion Where American Legion District 19 Post # 496, 5938 E. Parkcrest St. When Saturday, Aug. 11 from 9am to 3pm More Info Items accepted include CRT monitors, televisions, mice and keyboards, LCD monitors, cables, computers, printers, copiers, toners, shredders, DVDs and VCRs, cell phones, fax machines, telephones, laptops, servers, and all other electronics. Fluorescent bulbs as well as household and kitchen appliances are not accepted. Funds will benefit the American Legion District 19 Post # 496. The American Legion is a nonprofit organization that supports veterans and their families, and funds college scholarship opportunities.

MIDWEST COAST What 112th annual “Iowa by the Sea” picnic Who Hosted by the Iowa Association Where Long Beach Lawn Bowling Club House, 1109 Federation Dr. When Saturday, Aug. 11 at 9:30am More Info Long Beach was deemed “Iowa by the Sea” for its many Iowan transplants around the beginning of the 20th century. This annual picnic carries on the legacy. There will be a potluck at noon; after lunch, there will be a discussion of the the USS Iowa. Attendees are requested to bring their own dish, utensils, beverages and chairs. The club house does have a few spare picnic tables and chairs. If one plans to attend or needs more information, call Jo Ann at (562) 421-0726 or email countrygaljo@aol.com . Volunteers are needed and all friends of Iowans are welcome.

TINSELTOWN AFFAIRS What Free writers meeting Who Hosted by the California Writers Club of Long Beach Where Los Altos Neighborhood Library, 5614 E. Britton Dr. When Saturday, Aug. 11 from 3pm to 5pm More Info Southern California broadcaster Manny Pacheco, who authored his second self-published book Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History, will speak at the meeting. Doors open at 2:30pm for networking prior to the speaker. Visit calwriterslongbeach.org, call (562) 400-1100 or email info@calwriterslongbeach.org .

DOGS IN THE PARK What Free screening of Lady and the Tramp Who Sponsored by Signal Hill Petroleum, Orozco’s Auto Service, the Wrigley Area Neighborhood Alliance and the 7th district council office.

Where On the green at 20th Street and Daisy Avenue When Saturday, Aug. 11 at 6pm More Info There will be free hot dogs, lemonade and popcorn while supplies last. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own side dishes, chairs, blankets, and a sweater or jacket. Call Maria at (562) 427-5021 or email wrigleyalliance@gmail.com .

COYOTE, UGLY What Informational coyote seminar Who Hosted by Long Beach Animal Care Services Where P.D. Pitchford Companion Village Auditorium 7700 E. Spring St. When Thursday, Aug. 16 from 1:30pm to 3pm More Info Nationally known expert Lynsey White Dasher from the Humane Society of the United States will speak. There will be another seminar that same day from 6:30pm to 8pm at Skylinks Golf Course, 7700 E. Spring St. Please RSVP to (562) 570-3072 or email animalcare@longbeach.gov .

IT’S A PET’S LIFE What 7th annual pet fair Who Hosted by SoCal Animal Response Team (SCART) Where Long Beach Marine Stadium When Sunday, Aug. 19 from 8:30am to 2:30pm More Info This year’s Pet Fair in the Park will newly include the Walk for Pet Preparedness, which begins at 9am and costs $20 (the price includes a goodie bag). The fair will feature disaster-information vendors, pet products, pet foods, opportunity drawings, low-cost dog and cat vaccinations and deworming, microchipping, agility dog demonstrations, food trucks and more. Last year had approximately 50 booths and over 300 attendees. All proceeds support the hosting nonprofit SCART.

YES WE CAN What Book signing Who Hosted by Jack Roberts When Sunday, Aug. 19 from noon to 2pm Where Apostrophe Books, 4712 E. 2nd St. More Info Author Jack Roberts will be signing copies of his new book The Science of Affirmations.

ARE YOU KIDDING, YOURSELF? What Kidical Mass Neighborhood Bike Ride Who Hosted by the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association (BKBIA) Where Los Cerritos Park, 3750 Del Mar Ave. When Sunday, Aug. 19 from 1pm to 3pm More Info After a ride and safety demo by US Olympic cyclist Tony Cruz, kids and adults will bike for roughly two and a half miles, beginning at Los Cerritos Park and heading to Somerset Park for the free 7th District Council Office BBQ and Croquet Tournament. Participants are encouraged to creatively decorate their bikes for a potential prize. Email krista@bixbyknollsinfo.com, visit bixbyknollsinfo.com/kidicalmass.html or call (562) 595-0081.

HEIR, LOOMS What Monthly meeting Who Hosted by Questing Heirs Genealogical Society Where Resurrection Lutheran Church Parish Hall, 1900 E. Carson St. When Sunday, Aug. 19 beginning at 1:15pm More Info The meeting will feature two talks by speaker Kerry Bartels on military records. A beginning research class commences at 4pm and ends at 5pm.

Visit qhgs.info or call (562) 598-3027.

OPINION

4 SIGNAL TRIBUNE Thoughts from the Publisher

by Neena Strichart

Getting together with friends, family members and neighbors is especially fun during the summer months. Anywhere out-ofdoors seems to be the venue of choice for most of us, as our lovely California climate usually provides us with at least a bit of a breeze. Even during the hottest of days, a slight bit of wind and the shade of a tree or shelter allows us an oasis of sorts where we can spread out, visit and enjoy nature.

I believe our local parks are the best places to gather, as does the California Park and Recreation Society– which spreads the word with its slogan “Parks make life better!” Last Tuesday evening, Aug. 7, we had the chance to spend time in two parks while participating in National Night Out, a program created in 1981 by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) a nonprofit, crime-prevention organization which, according to its website, works in cooperation with thousands of crime-watch groups and law-enforcement agencies throughout the country. To read more about the nationwide event visit nationalnightout.org .

Steve and I started our Tuesday evening adventure at Signal Hill’s Reservoir Park, where the Signal Hill Police Department

(SHPD) hosted its 9th Annual National Night Out free celebration from 5pm to 8pm. In a note to the media, SHPD wrote that its focus for the event is to increase crime-prevention awareness and to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. Some of the activities during the evening included arts and crafts, local business and nonprofit information booths, a bounce house, music, barbecue and food for sale by the Signal Hill Honorary Police Officers Association, a free raffle, and a dunk tank, where locals had the chance to dunk employees of the SHPD. Those attending also had the opportunity to view the SHPD’s Mobile Command Vehicle and a Los Angeles County Fire Engine.

After saying our good-byes in Signal Hill, Steve and I headed over to Long Beach for the 5th Annual National Night Out event hosted by the Wrigley Area Neighborhood Alliance (WANA). The festivities took place from 6:30pm to 9pm at the mini park on the 900 block of West 21st Street. A potluck dinner was the main focus for the evening– and free hot dogs, coffee and cake made for great additions! On hand were members of the Long Beach Police Department’s (LBPD) West Division, K-9 Unit and SWAT team, who addressed the crowd and answered questions relating to law enforcement. Families sat under the trees and visited with neighbors as the kids ran and played under the stars.

Both events were well attended, and I am so glad we had the chance to spend time in both places. A big thank-you to SHPD and LBPD for understanding the importance of a Night Out for Sisters Brianna and Kenya stop for a cake break during residents.

WANA’s National Night Out.

Five-year-old Long Beach resident “Rudy” creates a sand painting at Reservoir Park during National Night Out.

LETTERS

Taxation vexation

AUGUST 10, 2012

TO

Signal Hill resident Teresa Sansbury has her blood pressure monitored at the Red Cross booth in Signal Hill.

TH E

ED ITO R

In response to Mayor Tina Hansen’s recent letter to the editor [“Righting the Right,” Aug. 3, 2012], Signal Hill Community First wants to make it clear that our community organization believes that voters should have the right to know and vote to approve any new taxes, bond issues, assessments and property-related fees.

Know and Vote requires that these revenue-raising proposals be put on a ballot and clearly explained.

Right now, the City of Signal Hill has the ability to tax its residents without clearly explaining why the City wants new revenue and how the money will be used.

Two years ago, the Council approved a tax increase on our property for sewers. Sure, there was a public hearing on the tax, a staff report and legal notices put in the paper on the proposed new tax. But, just how many taxpayers knew about the public hearing, read and understood the staff report or the legal notices in the paper? All of these types of documents are written in “bureaucratese” and legal jargon. It is a difficult job to take time off of our jobs and family obligations to keep on top of these obscure government procedures.

And, it is not fair to enter into agreements pledging taxpayers’ money without a guarantee that Signal Hill residents are well informed and that the City fully accepts its obligation to convince us, the voters, that new taxes, bond issues, assessments and property-related fees are justified. The taxpayer should have the final say.

Community First is not against new taxes or property-related fees; we are for transparency and voter approval.

For the record, Know and Vote is consistent with state law, and, state law always trumps local law. State law exempts cities from getting voter approval of fees, like those for landscape and lighting fees paid by residents in California Crown or the fees charged for library cards, bicycle fees or restaurant inspections, and, so does Know and Vote.

To the dogs

Long Beach [5th District] Councilman Patrick O’Donnell recently used the excuse that he had a surplus in his budget to commit $65,000 of taxpayer money to a designated privately funded project (El Dorado Dog Park).

Got surplus? Fix this, Mr. O’Donnell (see below) before the City gets sued per the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or by some injured citizen.

With the City of Long Beach continuously portraying their destitution in the form of drastic cutbacks to core services such as libraries, police and fire, O’Donnell’s frivolous spending is arrogant and irresponsible. The citizens deserve better than that.

Diana Lejins Long Beach

On behalf of Signal Hill Community First, Maria Harris Signal Hill

Hope and health

We want to thank the Signal Tribune for support of New Hope’s 4th Annual Community Health Fair held on July 28, 2012, by providing the PSA that helped make the fair a tremendous success in benefiting community attendees. Physical, mental, spiritual...community health is everybody’s business.

Thanks again for supporting us and being there when the need arises, and we look forward to your continuing support next year.

Debbie Sutton Fair coordinator

Rev. Coleman Hart Pastor

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MANAGING EDITOR

Stephen M. Strichart

Neena R. Strichart

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Barbie Ellisen Jane Fallon Stephanie Raygoza CJ Dablo

STAFF WRITERS

Nick Diamantides Michelle Lecours

COLUMNISTS

Jennifer E. Beaver Carol Berg Sloan, RD

DESIGN EDITOR

Cory Bilicko

CULTURE WRITERS

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/WEBSITE MANAGER

Daniel Adams Vicki Paris Goodman Gregory Spooner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Matt Sun

Leighanna Nierle

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Tanya Paz

Adam Buchsbaum Ariana Gastelum

DESIGN INTERN

Kaelyn Bruno

The Signal Tribune welcomes letters to the editor, which should be signed, dated and include a phone number to verify authenticity. The Signal Tribune reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, language and space requirements. The Signal Tribune does not print letters that refer substantially to articles in other publications and might not print those that have recently been printed in other publications or otherwise presented in a public

forum. Letters to the editor and commentaries are the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Signal Tribune or its staff. Although the editorial staff will attempt to verify and/or correct information when possible, letters to the editor and commentaries are opinions, and readers should not assume that they are statements of fact. Letter-writers will be identified by their professional titles or affiliations when, and only when, the editorial staff deems it relevant and/or to provide context to the letter. The Signal Tribune is published each Friday with a circulation of 25,000. Yearly subscriptions are available for $45.

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

www.signaltribune.com newspaper@signaltribune.com

AUGUST 10, 2012

COMMUNITY

Councilmember Johnson announces name of LB’s new, four-acre park

As part of the First Fridays art walk in Bixby Knolls on Aug. 3, outside The Factory restaurant on Atlantic Avenue, 7th District Councilmember James Johnson announced the name for the future 47-acre park that would be the largest in Long Beach since 1952. After collecting name ideas for nearly two months, Johnson announced that Willow Springs Park will be the name that he will recommend to the Parks and Recreation Commission for approval.

“One-hundred thirty years after buying this property, the time has come to finally begin opening it as a public park,” Johnson said. “This park, which has been the site of so many proposed development schemes over those 130 years, is possible because of the passion of so many residents who know its importance to both the history and the future of Long Beach.

Those same people overwhelmingly chose the name ‘Willow Springs Park.’”

Johnson said that people had been calling his office all week asking for the name and that most of his own staff didn’t even know the selection, which he had kept under tight wraps. “People were really intrigued. Everyone I ran into over the past several days wanted to know,” Johnson

said. “Even moments before the announcement, I was receiving suggestions for the name, including such humorous ideas as Knolls Ranger Park and Park Pantry.” The event also included a series of displays set up on the sidewalk with maps, pictures, and infographics that are being used in the Master Planning process that is currently underway.

Willow Springs Park began as Long Beach’s original water source in 1882 and has long been known for the willow trees that are plentiful on the property.

These characteristics led to the the naming of Willow and Spring streets adjacent to the property.

When finally complete, Willow Springs Park will be the largest park ever built in Long Beach west of Redondo Avenue, and the largest park built in the city since El Dorado Park in 1952.

According to Johnson, open space acres have long been lacking in west, central and north Long Beach, which has approximately one-tenth of the open space in east Long Beach. “Since 1882, all of our large parks in Long Beach have had one thing in common– they’re in the eastern part of our city,” Johnson said. “We will finally be bringing a regional park for the rest of

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can use that really take care of… what that was intended to do.”

The recommended changes to the city code will be discussed at a future Council meeting when they will be proposed for adoption in a public hearing.

Council

fitness activities like yoga classes and boot camps have not yet been determined, according to the community services director in a follow-up interview Wednesday.

The community services director also explained on Monday one inherent issue with the city’s parks. There’s only one park in the city that’s really made for sporting activities– Spud Field.

“So we really don’t have a lot of options in the city,” AlcivarMcCoy concluded, adding that there are other nearby parks in the city of Long Beach for sports activities.

Other recommended changes to the code are the city staff’s recommendations to clean up some of the language that’s described as “outdated” by the community services director. She explained that many of the rules governing the parks were not enforceable because of the vague language of the rules. A few sections in the current municipal code seem to prohibit “outraging public decency,” in addition to “indecent writing or designs” and “defacing property.” The community services director explained that these sections were removed because other parts of the municipal code and other state laws cover these issues.

“Just as an example, ‘outraging public decency’ was so vague,” Alcivar-McCoy said. “And it was written in 1924 that you couldn’t even come to a conclusion about what that actually means. So there are more specific ordinances now about behaviors that the police

b

Other City Council highlights Redevelopment of properties with abandoned oil wells The Council approved 4-0 (Councilmember Michael Noll was absent) a resolution that extended for another year the interim regulations that are currently in place to deal with development on properties with abandoned oil wells.

Truck traffic The City has the power to restrict or prohibit truck traffic on local streets, Assistant City Attorney Jeff Malawy explained to the Council last Monday. The traffic issue has been brought before the Council several times over the last few months by one resident, Dennis Howland, who has specifically criticized the truck traffic on Orange Avenue. Councilmember Ed Wilson and other members of the Council stressed that the issue does not involve one area and urged that the City conduct a study for traffic flow. “If we have [this] volume of trucks, and if the volume of trucks continue, you move them from one street and put them on another street,” Wilson said Monday night. The Council voted 4-0 to direct the staff to begin work on a draft ordinance. The issue will be discussed at a future Council meeting, in either a public hearing or public workshop.

Drivers– Before opening your door, check your rear-view mirror for bicyclists

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

5

Courtesy Johnson’s office

Seventh District Councilmember James Johnson, with his baby, during the name announcement ceremony for Long Beach’s next park.

Long Beach and beyond, with hiking trails, wetlands, sweeping vistas and more.”

Though the larger 47-acre site will take many years to complete as grant funds are identified, the first four acres will formally open on Nov. 1. Those four acres

It’s a Matter of Life

Dreaming Kenneth McKenzie Columnist

Since I started in the funeral profession in 1986, families have shared similar stories over and over with

make up the highest accessible point in Long Beach and offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Los Angeles Basin. Monthly tours of the entire 47-acre site are run by volunteers, on the third Saturday of every month at 10am, meeting at me. One recurring story is the dreams people have within a few days after the death of a family member. Most of the stories are very similar– the deceased seem to come to people when they are at their deepest sleep. The person who has died seems to come into their dreams in a much younger appearance.

The deceased seems to tell the grieving family member that they are okay and they have to go. They seem to be short and direct that they have to go now. The questions that are so needed to be asked and the overwhelming

2745 Orange Ave. To learn more about the tours, the park site, or to join the Master Planning process currently underway, visit JamesJohnsonLB.com/CAGardens or call (562) 570-7777.

Source: Johnson’s office

need to say “I miss you. I love you!” seem to go unanswered..

If this happens to you, embrace it as true and consider yourself blessed. I truly believe when we dream we must be at the same energy level as a person who has died and we are able to receive these messages.

This happened between my Aunt Jean and my Grandma McKenzie. Grandma came to my aunt 55 years younger. Her hair dark, she pulled up in front of my aunt in a 1950s cream-colored car. Her words were short: “I can’t stay long. I’m late. Having a good time.”

COMMUNITY

6 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

Focus on Business

Adventurous spirit is business as usual for Encore Awards owner Mu Zhang Adam Buchsbaum Editorial Intern

Before Mu Zhang owned her small business Encore Awards and Marking/Jensen Rubber Stamps, she worked in corporate America in operations. After her day job, Zhang would spend her evenings on an import business– a bilingual immigrant from Nanjing, China, she imported manufactured goods from China into America. “In China, our daytime is their evening time,�

Zhang explained. “Basically, I worked two jobs without impacting my regular job.�

Her on-the-side company was

Abbott and Costello

Boy, do we have a deal for you! During the summer months, you can adopt an adult cat from our shelter for $9. This program, sponsored by FoundAnimals.org, offers the low fee of $9 to adopt one of the many adult cats in shelters in Long Beach, the city of Los Angeles, and L.A. County. Abbott and Costello are our darling, silly, cuddly 9 Lives for $9 official ambassadors, but they say that they’re more than willing to give up their joint title for a loving forever home. Meet Abbott and Costello on the shelter side of Companion Animal Village at 7700 East Spring St., (562) 570-PETS. Ask for ID#A470986 and A470990, respectively.

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Great Wall Sourcing. This effort preceded her current proprietary venture. “I just want to own my own business. To me, it’s my American Dream. And I just think this country is full of opportunity if you work hard, if you keep learning, if you keep talking to smart people,� Zhang said. “You have a chance to at least give a try.�

While corporate life had its perks– fixed vacation, stock shares, steadier income– it still frustrated Zhang. “Because the company’s so big, whatever your little voice is a lot of times it’s diminished. Even if everybody around you is thinking that’s a good idea, in order to push that big monster takes too much time,� Zhang said. “You want to see yourself. What if I have the chance?

How about I do it this way? I would treat the employee this way; I would do the marketing plan this way; I would do operations this way.�

Zhang began to search for a company over the course of eight months, and in 2009 she bought Encore. “There's another side of the story to that because I have an engineer thermophysics degree. And the other side of me always loved art,�

Zhang said. “So this type of awards, design, this whole idea– [I could] feel the other side of me.� Zhang wanted an industry that matched manufacturing with creative products that interest her. Furthermore, she noted the unique accounts Encore had– the Foreign Press Association, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Academy of Country Music– that sweetened the deal. She didn’t buy it immediately though. “I didn't move much earlier because I was waiting for my son to graduate from high school, so I didn't

Where Everyone Plays a Part...

AUGUST 10, 2012

Courtesy Mu Zhang

Mu Zhang bought small business Encore Awards in 2009. Founded in 1984, the company has multiple focuses; it produces custom awards, rubber stamps, promotional products, and corporate and personalized gifts.

want to buy anything,� Zhang noted, “because I know to have your own business you have to be so dedicated.

You have to be more than 100 percent effort. So I was also waiting for the right time.�

After assuming ownership, Zhang moved Encore from its original location in Pasadena to Long Beach. “Our lease was up in Pasadena. So we had a choice: either we were going to renew that or make a move,� Zhang said. She saw potential in Long Beach. “I think Long Beach is a great city and has lots of opportunities here,� she said.

Encore Awards was founded in 1984 and along the way acquired fellow small businesses Encore Trophy, Al’s Rubber Stamp and Jensen Rubber Stamp. The company has multiple focuses; it produces custom awards, rubber stamps, promotional products, and corporate and personalized gifts.

Zhang came to America in the 1980s, though she never knew Encore then. She was part of a joint

Sino-American program to obtain an MBA, and she only planned to stay for a year. However, the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989 worried Zhang and made her re-evaluate, and she stayed like many other Chinese students with newfound, US-conferred citizenship, rather than just a student visa. With the program severed and its credits lost, Zhang switched her studies to international business and restarted her higher education. “I got a full scholarship for my master’s degree in international business, so I decided to come here to explore a different side of the world,� Zhang said. “One side of me was always adventurous, trying something new. New, unknown, challenge– that’s always very interesting to me.�

Zhang had her fair share of culture shock. The English she learned in China was British, for one, and imperfect at that. “Howdy?� Zhang said. “I don't even know what that means.� Other speakers with accented English were especially

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hard to understand. Seeing women talk about men openly was a significant change from China’s relatively closed nature. “American kids were pretty innocent. That’s also my impression,� Zhang noted. “Turmoil in life, whether it’s your own personal life or the whole society, pushes you to mature faster.�

Zhang sees the future of Encore as in the media-driven online frontier but noted that the customer ultimately remains the most important aspect to her. “I always love to interact with the customer. That’s my core part. I want to see the customer’s reaction, I want to see customers raving about us,� Zhang said. “I like to see it through, to gain that, to earn that. So that part I have not changed.�

Encore Awards is located at 1344 Newport Ave. and open from 10am to 6pm from Monday through Friday. Visit encoreawards.com .

[Disclosure: The writer of this article is the son of Mu Zhang.]

COMMUNITY

AUGUST 10, 2012

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

Aquarium of the Pacific and Harbor Breeze Cruises give chance to see blue whales in Long Beach waters The Aquarium of the Pacific and Harbor Breeze Cruises last week provided local media with an opportunity to view the largest animals on the planet, which happened to be in the waters off Long Beach expelling water from their blowholes.

The focus of the photo opp, blue whales, are an endangered species, and experts from the Aquarium’s blue whale research project provided updates about the population found off the coast of Southern California.

Media embarked aboard a specialized whale-watching, high-speed catamaran to view and learn about the creatures. In the last month, there have been over 200 sightings of blue whales.

The Aquarium of the Pacific is partnered with Harbor Breeze Cruises in helping Cascadia Research Collective document their behavioral data. “We are out there every single day,” Kera Mathes, a marine biologist. “We can take behavioral data about what the whales are doing, where they are spending their time, what’s going on in the shipping lanes, that sort of thing.”

The fin whale, the second largest whale, is also commonly found in the area during this time of the year.

According to Mathes, the blue whales

came late this year. They are usually expected earlier in the summer.

During the excursion, the media were informed about the common dangers of the blue whale. Ship strike is the primary one– along with pollution. “There have been many animals that have accidentally eaten plastics,” Mathes said. Blue whales are also liable to entangle themselves in nets and fishing gear.

The media event coincided with the Aquarium’s announcement that its award-winning Whales: Voices in the Sea multimedia exhibit is now available at seven institutions around the nation, including most recently being added to the New England Aquarium and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. The Aquarium of the Pacific is also debuting new components to the exhibit, which highlight the endangered North Atlantic right whale and humpback whale and include rare footage and interviews with leading scientists. As guests explore this exhibit, they will learn about the environmental threats facing blue, North Atlantic right, gray, humpback, sperm, and other whales.

MORE INFORMATION aquariumofpacific.org

Photo by Diana Lejins

The Aquarium of the Pacific and Harbor Breeze Cruises last week provided local media outlets the chance to view blue whales, which happened to be in the waters off Long Beach.

Community mental-health facility that serves disadvantaged finds more accessible location

After a more than two-year search, The Guidance Center is relocating and consolidating both its Long Beach clinics into one comprehensive facility at 1301 Pine Ave. Founded in 1946, The Guidance Center provides comprehensive mental-health treatment to the community’s most disadvantaged children and their families struggling with mental illness and abuse.

“We want to have a visible presence in the neighborhood of the clients we serve,” said Patricia Costales, The Center’s executive director. “This new location will help further establish the Center’s identity in the community and will provide greater accessibility for

our clients.”

The new location, which was found by the real-estate developer company Urban Offerings, is near where clients live and go to school and close to the Center’s community partners. The current Long Beach clinics serve approximately 1,500 clients annually, and the new building will allow this number to grow over the years, according to The Guidance Center.

“We are all so very excited about this opportunity,” said Tim Sailor, The Guidance Center’s board president.

“Not only will the new building provide a central location for the majority

of our clients, but it will also serve as a resource for the community and as a place where our supporters and partners can gather, have tours and understand our mission.”

The property at 1313 Pine Ave. will undergo a major renovation, and The Guidance Center is expected to move into its new home in early spring 2013.

A groundbreaking event to celebrate the new location will take place there Friday, Aug. 17 at 10am.

MORE INFORMATION tgclb.org pcostales@tgclb.org (562) 485-2271

Nonprofit food provider to host free ‘planned giving’ reception Supporters of the nonprofit Food Finders will get an opportunity to learn how their charitable giving can continue well into the future by attending an upcoming “Planned Giving” reception.

On Wednesday, Aug. 22, Food Finders, along with Crowell, Weedon & Co., will host a cocktail reception and conduct a brief overview of planned giving options that are easy and flexible for a variety of individual lifestyles. The event will include a financial advisor, an accountant, and an attorney, who will cover multiple choices of investing,

estate and tax planning, and more, as well as answer questions.

The complimentary reception will start at 6pm. Guests are welcome to bring friends to the event, which will take place at the Long Beach Petroleum Club, 3636 Linden Ave. “Designating even a small amount of funds towards a charitable cause can make a big impact, and this event will provide some options on how to help Food Finders’ program to succeed long into the future,” said Patti Larson, executive director of Food Finders.

LB Vice Mayor Garcia encouraging residents to register for Reverse 911

Long Beach Vice Mayor Robert Garcia is asking Long Beach residents to register their cell phones for Reverse 911, the City’s Emergency Notification System.

“The recent minor earthquakes serve as an important reminder to be prepared,” Garcia said. “We need all residents to register for Reverse 911 so that we can contact them in case of a natural disaster or emergency.”

While the City has access to most landlines in the area, it does not have access to cell phones unless they are registered in the Reverse 911 system.

Reverse 911 allows the City to contact residents on their cell phones with information in case of an emergency.

Since some residents only have cell phones, and an emergency may occur while most are at work, registering cell phones in the Reverse 911 system is extremely important, according to Garcia. “I've registered my cell phone, and it only takes two minutes,” he said.

Residents can register for Reverse 911 at http://www.longbeach.gov/ R911 .

Garcia is also the chair of the City Council’s Public Safety Committee.

7

Those interested are asked to RSVP to Food Finders at (562) 5983003, ext. 104.

MORE INFORMATION foodfinders.org

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CULTURE

Latin band to perform at rancho’s last concert of summer Rancho Los Cerritos will host Latin band Romanza, led by MexicanAmerican musician Rodrigo Rodriguez Diaz, in an Aug. 26 summer concert where attendees may bring a picnic dinner and Salsa-dance.

Museum gates will be open for picnicking after 4:30pm, and the concert is scheduled from 5:30pm to 7pm. The concert will take place in the open garden of the Rancho adobe house, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets.

Admission is free.

Diaz is known for playing a number of instruments. His studies in Mexico focused on bass, which then became a stepping-stone for him to take on electronic bass after trying to adapt to the fierce music industry of Mexico.

The Romanza concert will be the third and last summer concert held this year at Rancho Los Cerritos. Parking is available in the lot across from the Rancho entrance or along Virginia Road.

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site is located at 4600 Virginia Rd. For more information about the concert, call (562) 570-1755 or visit rancholoscerritos.org .

AUGUST 10, 2012

Free opera discussion to focus on history and philosophy behind Verdi’s Two Foscari LA Opera will present an “opera talk” on The Two Foscari at the El Dorado Library, 2900 Studebaker Rd., on Saturday, Aug. 11 at 2pm.

In the opera, the languid canals and boisterous festivals of 15thcentury Venice conceal a deadly web of secret plots and vindictive rivalries. Caught up in forces beyond their control, a father and son struggle to reclaim honor in a city that knows no mercy. The opera in three acts was composed

by Giuseppe Verdi and based on the historical play The Two Foscari by Lord Byron.

The LA Opera Lecture Series presents insightful talks that address history, literature, philosophy and fine arts within the context of opera. The series is presented by LA Opera’s Community Educators, a team of trained volunteer experts.

The LA Opera offers a chance for attendees to be entered into a drawing for an opera-related gift to be given out at the end of the free presentation.

For more information, call (562) 570-7500 or visit lbpl.org .

Source: City of LB

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AUGUST 10, 2012

Science Center showing largest Cleopatra exhibit ever assembled in US The west coast premiere of Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt, featuring the largest collection of its kind ever assembled in the US, is now on view at the California Science Center. More than 150 priceless Egyptian artifacts illuminating the life of Cleopatra VII, one of the most provocative and powerful women in history, are part of the exhibit, including colossal statues, jewelry, coins and items from her sunken palace in Alexandria and other ancient sites that were significant during her life as queen.

Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt immerses visitors in the experience of two present-day searches on land and sea for the elusive queen, which extend from the sands of Egypt to the depths of the Bay of Aboukir near Alexandria. The artifacts weigh in at about 30 tons in total, including two 16-foot granite statues of a Ptolemaic king and queen from the 4th to 3rd centuries B.C. “We are thrilled to host the west coast premiere of this extraordinary exhibition,” said Jeffrey Rudolph, president and CEO of the California Science Center. “The exhibition will help our guests explore the science of archaeology and the process of recovering these artifacts which reveal new and fascinating details of Cleopatra’s life.”

The artifacts in the exhibit are woven into the story of her rule and life in ancient Egypt during the Ptolemaic period. After Egypt succumbed to Roman forces and Cleopatra famously took her own life following the suicide of her lover Mark Antony, the Romans attempted to wipe her legacy from the pages of history. Cleopatra has remained one of history’s most intriguing enigmas, and her final resting place is one of Egypt’s great unsolved mysteries. The story of her life and time unfolds in a dramatic setting with highdefinition multimedia and original soundscapes, including a complimentary audio tour provided to every guest, making the exhibition a rich, multisensory experience.

The exhibition is organized by

National Geographic and Arts & Exhibitions International, a division of AEG Live, with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities and the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM).

Visitors to the exhibition follow the modern-day parallel stories of two ongoing expeditions being led in Egypt. The galleries display items recovered in these explorations by Franck Goddio, French underwater archaeologist and director of IEASM, and by Zahi Hawass, former Minister of State for Antiquities of Egypt, with Kathleen Martinez, who is searching for Cleopatra’s tomb in the desert at Taposiris Magna.

The exhibition showcases artifacts from Franck Goddio’s continuing underwater search off the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, where he has recovered items that were part of Cleopatra’s world, as well as that of her dynasty. His search, sponsored by the Hilti Foundation, began in 1992. Goddio’s finds bring visitors inside his search for the lost world of Cleopatra, including remnants from the grand palace where she ruled and the sunken ancient cities of Canopus and Heracleion, two bustling centers of commerce and culture in her era, where she would have spent time for both religious and pleasure-seeking pursuits.

“The aim of our work is to reveal traces of the past and bring history back to life. We are delighted to present our underwater archaeological achievements and discoveries off the coast of Egypt to the American public,” said Goddio.

The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Dr. The Science Center is open daily from 10am to 5pm.

Guests are encouraged to buy their tickets online at californiasciencecenter.org to reserve an entry date and time. The general information number is (323) SCIENCE.

CULTURE

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

9

Courtesy Science Center

Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt immerses visitors in the experience of two present-day searches on land and sea for the elusive queen, which extend from the sands of Egypt to the depths of the Bay of Aboukir near Alexandria.

Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt admission prices are $19.75 for adults 18 to 59; $16.75 for youth 13 to 17, college students with ID and seniors 60 and older; and $12.75 for children 4 to 12. Member rates are $12.75 for adults; $11.75 for youth 13 to 17, college students with ID and seniors 60 and older; and $10.75 for children 4 to 12.

Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt and IMAX combination ticket prices are $26 for adults 18 to 59; $21.25 for youth 13 to 17, college students with ID and seniors 60 and older; and $16.50 for children 4 to 12.

Member rates for combo tickets are $18.25 for adults; $16.25 for youth 13 to 17, college students with ID and seniors 60 and older;

and $13.75 for children 4 to 12.

Special rates for schools and other groups of 15 and over apply. The exhibit's special group information number is (213) 744-2019.

Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Admission to all other Science Center exhibits is free. More information is also available at californiasciencecenter.org .

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10 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

Park

continued from page 1

exploring opportunities at the property because of its location adjacent to the Los Angeles River for possible storm water capture and also to research and demonstrate new storm water capture groundwater recharge and approaches,” said Whitaker. “We haven't gotten very far beyond conceptualizing ideas and also investigating possible funding sources.”

“As a park commissioner, I know how valuable park land is to the community,” Guerra said. “The second reason is for the last couple of years, the Long Beach Parks department, through the city council, has asked us

to use our swimming pool as a community public pool for the summertime.” That pool has been made available to Long Beach youth for the last three summers free of charge.

“So we know that we’re kind of in a great position in the community to offer some amenities that aren’t available to the community,” said Guerra. “So that was important to us.”

Being located adjacent to the Los Angeles riverbed adds additional incentive to maintain the park’s open space, said Guerra. “Many cities are developing the ‘greenbelt’ against the riverbed to (preserve) open land,” he said.

Will J. Reid Park is an 11-acre

NEWS

urban camp located in a city area and has belonged to the Council for 65 years. It’s bordered by the Virginia Country Club, Los Angeles riverbed, railroad tracks and surrounding residential community, and is located at 4747 Daisy Ave. Park facilities include a swimming pool, camping amenities, dining hall, full kitchen and training facility for adult leaders.

LBAC also owns two other properties that serve its constituency. Camp Tahquitz surrounds Highway 38 in the San Bernardino National Forest and is a one-square mile property with a lake.

The second camp is the Aquatics Sea Base positioned along Alamitos Bay Long Beach’s Naples area at 5875 Appian Way. Guerra says the proceeds from the sale will be used to bolster improvement of Tahquitz and Aquatics Sea Base facilities, create more programs for scouts, as well as strengthen LBACs endowment fund. The endowment

money, which is invested in the stock market, basically reinvests itself, said Guerra. “It’s really perpetual money to help stabilize the Council,” he said.

“What else could we do for our constituency?” Guerra said. “Reinvest in ourselves. Make our financial blueprint more sustainable.”

Additional monies will be used on improvements of the camps’ bathrooms and kitchens. At Aquatics Sea Base, they have a variety of donated sailing equipment, but without standardized gear, it is difficult to teach classes, Guerra said. Equipment appropriate for a younger demographic may also be considered.

“There’s really no consistency of what equipment we have,” Guerra said. “It’s hard to teach a sailing class when you have four or five different types of sabots. Or try to get kids to learn how to kayak when you’ve got white-water rafting kayaks and ocean kayaks.” LBAC will purchase new

AUGUST 10, 2012

sailing, kayaking and other waterrelated equipment to replenish the base and offer an improved aquatics program.

At Tahquitz, they will roll out new high-adventure programs that appeal to today’s youth. These may include mountain biking or “mountainboarding,” a practice similar to snowboarding but with a steering mechanism and side wheels to careen down mountain terrain.

Separate from the sale proceeds, LBAC received a $350,000 grant from Forest Lawn to build a bridge over Highway 38 so scouts can safely cross the property which is split across the road.

The last portion of the sale proceeds will go to investments in a slush fund. “(This) will allow us the flexibility to not have to borrow (money) in the future,” Guerra said. “We’re serious about being here for another 100 years.”

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SH author uses his first novel to begin publishing house AUGUST 10, 2012

Adam Buchsbaum Editorial Intern

Signal Hill resident Marty Steere always loved to write but never had the time. As the economy slowed down, and his law practice with it, Steere found the time to write the idea he had already created over a few years. Now, after nine months of writing, a year of editing– with both professional editors and beta readers– Steere has published his first novel, a thriller entitled Sea of Crises.

In the book, Commander Bob Cartwright and his crew journey successfully to the moon for Apollo 18 back in 1976, but suddenly lose all contact while there. After the capsule finally plunges back into an ocean here on Earth, only their charred bodies remain. But, in the present day, brothers Nate, Peter and Matt discover the capsule was not actually Apollo 18. The trio seeks to unravel the truth behind their father's disappearance and the moon mission– all the while pursued by a shadowy, violent government force, The Organization.

Steere recently discussed the novel, his writing and himself with the Signal Tribune.

Signal Tribune: The publisher of this novel, Penfield Productions, is also your own publishing company. Why did you form your own? Do you plan to publish others’ works through Penfield?

Steere: Once I’d decided to publish myself, I figured I’d go all in. I’d spent a lot of time writing and polishing the novel, and I wanted the final product to be professional and on par with anything being published by any of the large houses. That meant having full control. Though I didn’t set up my imprint with the intent of handling works by others, I suppose that, if the right opportunity presented itself, I’d consider it. For now, however, it’s all about publishing my own books, and I’m keeping that my focus.

Signal Tribune: You mentioned thriller writer Alistair MacLean as one writer you drew inspiration from. Are there other thriller writers that inspire you and your work? If so, how and in what ways do they inspire you?

Steere: Absolutely, though I take inspiration from a lot of different authors, not just in the thriller genre. I have pretty wide-ranging tastes. On the thriller side, some of my favorites include Ken Follett, John Grisham, Nelson DeMille, Tom Clancy and Robert Ludlum. I’ve been delighted to have readers tell me that they see aspects of those writers and others in my book. In fact, I’ve had more than one reader tell me they found Sea of Crises to be something akin to Clancy meets Ludlum. Since those two

Sea of Crises is Signal Hill author Marty Steere’s first book.

are fabulous writers, it’s high praise indeed. What I enjoy most about those authors and the others I admire are their abilities to create memorable characters and seamlessly weave the lives of those characters and their individual stories into the overall narrative in an interesting and– this is very important– not obvious or cookie-cutter way. To me, the best books are the ones that lull you into no longer focusing on the fact that you’re reading and, instead, you find yourself comfortably– or uncomfortably, if that’s the author’s intent at the moment– immersed in the experience.

Painting with words is how I’ve heard it described, and I think that’s an excellent way of characterizing it. Those guys all do it, and do it well.

Signal Tribune: Do you have a writing routine? If so, could you describe it?

Steere: Not really. I write when I have time. But, when I’m in the middle of a project, it’s never far from me, and inspiration can strike at odd hours.

When that happens, I jot down notes and put them in my pocket. These might include places I think I want to take the story, or they could just be random bits of dialogue or pieces of action. Occasionally, I’ll pull out those notes and say, “What the heck?” But most of the time I remember. And when I’m next at the computer, I aggregate them into my loose– and it’s always just a loose– story outline. Then, before I start a scene, I’ll pick and choose from that outline the things I want to have happen in the scene, and I allow that list to guide me. However, I never let any prior outline constrain me if, as I’m writing, I feel the urge to go in a different direction, which often happens. I know I can always go back and edit.

One of the things I like most about writing is the discovery process. It’s almost as if I’m experiencing the story as it’s unfolding in front of me on the computer screen. I can’t tell you how many times in the middle of writing I’ve said to myself, with some surprise, “Of course, that’s what he would do,” or “Yeah, that’s exactly what she would say.” I find that I’m entertaining myself as much as my reader, and that makes the process a lot of fun.

Signal Tribune: The reception for your book has been positive from online user reviews. Do you plan to have it reviewed by professional outlets? Do you hope or plan to expand its print publication? Do you have any longterm aspirations for the book?

Steere: Yes, as a matter of fact, Kirkus Reviews recently gave me one of their coveted starred reviews. Kirkus is one of the oldest and most well-established review services in the world and is known in the industry as the toughest critic, so, to receive a star– which is given to only about 10 percent of the books they review– is extraordinary.

My review is in the current issue of Kirkus Reviews magazine. The electronic version of the book– priced at $2.99– can be purchased from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and various other ebook outlets. The trade paperback version, at $15.95, is available not only through CreateSpace, which is Amazon’s print-on-demand service, but through Lightning Source, Inc., an affiliate of Ingram, and– given Ingram’s distribution channels– it’s available to bookstores and libraries throughout the world. My goal at this point is to get the word out and help people discover the novel. Hopefully, they will, and they’ll tell others. I’d love for it to become a bestseller. But I’m realistic. Whether it sells 100 or 100,000, I want every person who reads it to say, “I really enjoyed that.”

The Signal Tribune: How long did Sea of Crises take you to complete, from

SIGNAL TRIBUNE

11

when you first put words on the page to the finished manuscript?

Steere: It took me nine months to write the manuscript. However, I then spent another year editing, in part with the assistance of feedback from beta readers and with some very important input from a couple of professional editors whom I hired to read and provide comments. There’s no way to overstate the importance of editing and polishing. A book that receives that kind of attention shines in comparison to books that have been put out prematurely.

The Signal Tribune: I read in your press release that you researched heavily to set an authentic tone for the story.

How long did it take you to do the research? Did you make any surprising discoveries? Did your research change the story at all?

Steere: I started researching as soon as I started writing, and, for the first few months, I alternated between writing and studying the histories of the Apollo program and the astronauts who went to the moon. The first third of the novel takes place in the present time, so I didn’t need that much technical expertise on the space program for that part.

Being able to trade off between writing and researching during those first few months offered a nice change of pace.

By the time I got to the beginning of part two, I was ready to take my reader to the moon. As for what I learned, I’d have to say that I was struck by how difficult and how dangerous it was to do what the astronauts did. I’d always been fascinated by the space program, but I’d also had a fairly romanticized notion of what was involved. I was really impressed with all that the astronauts had to learn and do and the risks that they willingly and, much of the time, seemingly effortlessly, undertook.

The Signal Tribune: Sea of Crises is your first novel. Do you have any other

Courtesy Marty Steere

Through his new publishing company, Signal Hill resident Marty Steere has released his first novel, a thriller entitled Sea of Crises. novel ideas for the future? If so, how far along are they? Would they also be thrillers, or perhaps a sequel to Sea of Crises?

Steere: Sea of Crises is the first novel that I’ve published. However, I wrote a novel before that, entitled Defiant Heart. Unfortunately, my former agent was unable to sell that book, so I set it aside to focus on Sea of Crises. I do, however, fully intend to publish that first novel. It’s not a thriller but rather falls more into the catch-all definition of mainstream fiction. At its heart, [it is] a love story. If I were to be more descriptive about it, I’d call it a coming-of-age adventure tale featuring a couple of strong-willed and courageous characters. It opens in a small Midwestern

town on the eve of World War II. The manuscript is going through one more– hopefully last– pass with one of my editors, and, if all goes well, will likely be released either later this year or early next year. I have a number of ideas I’m kicking around for a third novel, but I’ve not yet started writing. It may or may not be a thriller, though, if it’s not, I feel certain I’ll be writing another thriller at some point. As for a sequel to Sea of Crises, I wrote that book as a stand-alone, with no intention of continuing with the characters. However, I came to love those characters, and I’ve had a number of people ask me if we’ll see more of them. So, it’s possible there will be a sequel, but only if I come up with just the right story to do them justice.

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TST4147 APN: 7211-026-079 TS No: CA09007389-11-1 TO No: 1025436 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED February 10, 2011. 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 August 29, 2012 at 09:00 AM, behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza Pomona, CA, MTC FINANCIAL INC. dba TRUSTEE CORPS, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on February 17, 2011 as Instrument No. 20110265764 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, executed by MARITTA M. LANTO, A SINGLE WOMAN, as Trustor(s), in favor of JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. 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: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST 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: 2599 WALNUT AVE UNIT 103, 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 $222,865.11 (Estimated), provided, 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. DATE: July 26, 2012 TRUSTEE CORPS TS No. CA09007389-11-1 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Jose Hernandez, Authorized Signatory SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.priorityposting.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-573-1965 TRUSTEE CORPS MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. 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 telephone number for information regarding the Trustee's Sale or visit the Internet Web site address on the previous page for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA09007389-11-1. 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. P970491 8/3, 8/10, 08/17/2012

TST4146 APN: 7215-019-110 TS No: CA05003061-11-1 TO No: 1058680 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED February 14, 2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On August 28, 2012 at 09:00 AM, behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza Pomona, CA, MTC FINANCIAL INC. dba TRUSTEE CORPS, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on February 20, 2007 as Instrument No. 20070361400 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, executed by JAMES C. PREISACH, TRUSTEE OF THE JAMES C. PREISACH REVOCABLE TRUST, as

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Trustor(s), in favor of WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA 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: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST 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: 2001 EAST 21ST ST UNIT 229, SIGNAL HILL, CA 90755-0000 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 $221,427.26 (Estimated), provided, 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. DATE: July 24, 2012 TRUSTEE CORPS TS No. CA05003061-11-1 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Tina Godoy, Authorized Signatory SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.priorityposting.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-573-1965 TRUSTEE CORPS MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED MAY BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. 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 telephone number for information regarding the Trustee's Sale or visit the Internet Web site address on the previous page for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA05003061-11-1. 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.

P969958 8/3, 8/10, 08/17/2012

TST4145 Trustee Sale No.: 20120015001613 Title Order No.: 120114187 FHA/VA/PMI No.: NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 3/22/2004. 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. NDEX WEST, LLC, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 03/30/2004 as Instrument No. 04 0745385 of official records in the office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, State of CALIFORNIA. EXECUTED BY: TIMOTHY A. LANKFORD, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER'S CHECK/CASH EQUIVALENT or other form of payment authorized by 2924h(b), (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States). DATE OF SALE: 8/23/2012 TIME OF SALE: 09:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: Doubletree Hotel Los Angeles - Norwalk, 13111 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk, CA 90650 STREET ADDRESS and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 2599 WALNUT AVENUE #213 , SIGNAL HILL, CA 90755 APN#: 7211-026-104 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any , shown herein.

Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, 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 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 $288,937.27. The

beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. 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 800-280-2832 for information regarding the trustee's sale or visit this Internet Web site www.auction.com for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case 20120015001613. 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. FOR TRUSTEE SALE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: AUCTION.COM, LLC ONE MAUCHLY IRVINE, CA 92618 800-2802832 www.auction.com NDEx West, L.L.C. MAY BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NDEx West, L.L.C. as Trustee Dated: 7/18/2012 P967894 8/3, 8/10, 08/17/2012

TST4152 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TS No. 12-0041883 Title Order No. 12-0073466 APN No. 7211-026-053 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 01/12/2009. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Notice is hereby given that RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A., as duly appointed trustee pursuant to the Deed of Trust executed by KWABENA BOAKYE, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, dated 01/12/2009 and recorded 1/22/2009, as Instrument No. 20090083644, in Book , Page , of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, State of California, will sell on 09/04/2012 at 1:00PM, At the Pomona Valley Masonic Temple Building, located at 395 South Thomas Street, Pomona, California at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash or check as described below, payable in full at time of sale, all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust, in the property situated in said County and State and as more fully described in the above referenced Deed of Trust. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1460 EAST WILLOW STREET #201, 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.The total amount of the unpaid balance with interest thereon of the obligation secured by the property to be sold plus reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $334,431.06. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept cashier's checks 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 Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state.Said sale will be made, in an ''AS IS'' condition, but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances, to satisfy the indebtedness secured by said Deed of Trust, advances thereunder, with interest as provided, and the unpaid principal of the Note secured by said Deed of Trust with interest thereon as provided in said Note, plus fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. If required by the provisions of section 2923.5 of the California Civil Code, the declaration from the mortgagee, beneficiary or authorized agent is attached to the Notice of Trustee’s Sale duly recorded with the appropriate County Recorder’s Office. 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 a 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 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.

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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 1-800-281-8219 or visit this Internet Web site www.recontrustco.com, using the file number assigned to this case 12-0041883.

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. RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A. 1800 Tapo Canyon Rd., CA6914-01-94 SIMI VALLEY, CA 93063 Phone/Sale Information: (800) 2818219 By: Trustee's Sale Officer RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A. is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. FEI # 1006.164431 8/10, 8/17, 8/24/2012

TST41444 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TS No. 12-0035923 Doc ID #0008750556312005N Title Order No. 12-0066126 Investor/Insurer No. 203157957 APN No. 7216-021-094 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 09/16/2009. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Notice is hereby given that RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A., as duly appointed trustee pursuant to the Deed of Trust executed by SHAUNA R ROSEBOROUGH, A SINGLE WOMAN, dated 09/16/2009 and recorded 9/18/2009, as Instrument No. 20091423249, in Book , Page , of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, State of California, will sell on 08/27/2012 at 11:00AM, By the fountain located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766 at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash or check as described below, payable in full at time of sale, all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust, in the property situated in said County and State and as more fully described in the above referenced Deed of Trust. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1903 TEMPLE AVENUE 215, 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. The total amount of the unpaid balance with interest thereon of the obligation secured by the property to be sold plus reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $310,065.31. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept cashier's checks 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 Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state. Said sale will be made, in an ''AS IS'' condition, but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances, to satisfy the indebtedness secured by said Deed of Trust, advances thereunder, with interest as provided, and the unpaid principal of the Note secured by said Deed of Trust with interest thereon as provided in said Note, plus fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. If required by the provisions of section 2923.5 of the California Civil Code, the declaration from the mortgagee, beneficiary or authorized agent is attached to the Notice of Trustee's Sale duly recorded with the appropriate County Recorder's Office. 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 a 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 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 1800-281-8219 or visit this Internet Web site www.recontrustco.com, using the file number assigned to this case TS No. 12-0035923. 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.

RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A. 1800 Tapo Canyon Rd., CA6-914-0194 SIMI VALLEY, CA 93063 Phone: (800) 281 8219, Sale Information (626) 927-4399 By: - Trustee's Sale Officer RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A. is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. A-4272611 08/03/2012, 08/10/2012, 08/17/2012

TST4134 NoTICE oF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 5/7/2003. 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. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier's check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings

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bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. 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, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale.

Trustor: JESUS HERNANDEZ GONZALEZ, A SINGLE MAN Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC Recorded 5/27/2003 as Instrument No. 03 1491487 in book ---, page --- and rerecorded on --- as --- of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, Date of Sale: 8/22/2012 at 9:30 AM Place of Sale: By the fountain located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $198,825.17 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 15227 FLALLON AVENUE, NORWALK, CALIFORNIA 90650 A.P.N.: 8079-021-006 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale.

Pursuant to California Civil Code §2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: The beneficiary or servicing agent declares that it has obtained from the Commissioner of Corporation a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date the Notice of Sale is filed and/or the timeframe for giving Notice of Sale Specified in subdivision (s) of California Civil Code Section 2923.52 applies and has been provided or the loan is exempt from the requirements.

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 my hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this 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 (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site HYPERLINK "http://www.altisource.com/MortgageServices/DefaultManagement/TrusteeServices.aspx" http://www.altisource.com/MortgageServices/DefaultManagement/TrusteeServ ices.aspx, using the file number assigned to this case 201219160. 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: 7/13/2012 Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee c/o 18377 Beach Blvd., Suite 210 Huntington Beach, California 92648 Automated Sale Information Line: (866) 960-8299 http://www.altisource.com/MortgageServices/DefaultManagement/TrusteeServices.aspx For Non-Automated Sale Information, call: (866) 240-3530 __________________________________ Tunisha Jennings, Trustee Sale Assistant

TST4137 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TS No. 11-0138972 Title Order No. 110119141 APN No. 7217-028-030 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 06/21/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Notice is hereby given that RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A., as duly appointed trustee pursuant to the Deed of Trust executed by JAY EDWARD TILLES, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE & SEPARATE PROPERTY, dated 06/21/2007 and recorded 6/29/2007, as Instrument No. 20071566615, in Book , Page , of Official Records in the office of

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the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, State of California, will sell on 08/17/2012 at 1:00PM, At the Pomona Valley Masonic Temple Building, located at 395 South Thomas Street, Pomona, California at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash or check as described below, payable in full at time of sale, all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust, in the property situated in said County and State and as more fully described in the above referenced Deed of Trust. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 2311 SARAH CT, SIGNAL HILL, CA, 907554051. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein.The total amount of the unpaid balance with interest thereon of the obligation secured by the property to be sold plus reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $736,510.48. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept cashier's checks 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 Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state.Said sale will be made, in an ''AS IS'' condition, but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances, to satisfy the indebtedness secured by said Deed of Trust, advances thereunder, with interest as provided, and the unpaid principal of the Note secured by said Deed of Trust with interest thereon as provided in said Note, plus fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. If required by the provisions of section 2923.5 of the California Civil Code, the declaration from the mortgagee, beneficiary or authorized agent is attached to the Notice of Trustee’s Sale duly recorded with the appropriate County Recorder’s Office. 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 a 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 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 1800-281-8219 or visit this Internet Web site www.recontrustco.com, using the file number assigned to this case 11-0138972. 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. RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A. 1800 Tapo Canyon Rd., CA6-914-01-94 SIMI VALLEY, CA 93063 Phone/Sale Information: (800) 281-8219 By: Trustee's Sale Officer RECONTRUST COMPANY, N.A. is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. FEI # 1006.163812 7/27, 8/03, 8/10/2012

TST4148 / 2012 153735 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: VILANDER STONE & TILE, INC., 7886 Tarma St., Long Beach, CA 90808. Registrant: VILANDER STONE & TILE, INC., 7886 Tarma St., Long Beach, CA 90808. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Donovan Lee Vilander, President. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on January 1, 2007. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on August 1, 2012. 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: August 3, 10, 17, 24, 2012.

TST4149 / 2012 153736 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: 1. DWS MAINTENANCE & REMODELING, INC., 2. CLASSIC COUNTERTOPS, 3.

DWS CONSTRUCTION, 5066 Raton Circle, Long Beach, CA 90807. Registrant: DWS MAINTENANCE & REMODELING, INC., 5066 Raton Circle, Long Beach, CA 90807. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Dwight W. Schmalried, President.

The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on June 14, 2007. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on August 1, 2012. 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: August 3, 10, 17, 24, 2012.

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TST4130 / 2012 134407 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: MD SOLUTIOS, 6110 Birkdale St., Long Beach, CA 90815. Registrant: MATTHEW DAVID SANDUSKY, 6110 Birkdale St., Long Beach, CA 90815.

This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Matthew David Sandusky. 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 January 1, 1997. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on July 3, 2012. 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: July 20, 27, & August 3, 10, 2012.

TST4133 / 2012 135575 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following persons are doing business as: NO MO-STACHE, 1507 Berkeley St. #3, Santa Monica, CA 90404. Registrant: 1.

JENNIFER PASCHALL, 1507 Berkeley St. #2, Santa Monica, CA 90404, 2. GITA VASSEGHI, 1221 N. Spaulding Ave. #105, Los Angeles, CA 90046. This business is conducted by: a General Partnership. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Jennifer Paschall. The registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious

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TST4129 / 2012 132886 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: 1. THE EDGE FITNESS CENTER, 2. THE EDGE TRAINING CENTER, 3. THE EDGE FITNESS TRAINING CENTER, 3292 E. Willow St., Signal Hill, CA 90755. Registrant: REISCHL PHYSICAL THERAPY, INC., 3292 E. Willow St., Signal Hill, CA 90755. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Susan Reischl, Vice-President.

The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name on May 7, 2007. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on July 2, 2012.

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: July 20, 27, & August 3, 10, 2012.

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business name on . This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on July 5, 2012. 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: July 20, 27, & August 3, 10, 2012.

TST4135 / 2012 129994 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: KATERINE'S DELICATES, 1922 Dawson Ave., Signal Hill, CA 90755. Registrant: KATHERINE WARREN, 1924 Dawson Ave., Signal Hill, CA 90755.

This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Katherine Warren. 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 June 27, 2012. 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: July 27, & August 3, 10, 17, 2012.

TST4136 / 2012 148197 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: PACIFIC COLLISION EQUIPMENT CO., 2424 Brayton Ave., Signal Hill, CA 90755. Registrant: HORNEDO INC., 2424 Brayton Ave., Signal Hill, CA 907655. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Robert Hornedo, President. 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 July 23, 2012. 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: July 27, & August 3, 10, 17, 2012.

TST4150 / 2012 154278 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: COMSTOCK COMMERCIAL PLUMBING, 3654 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90807. Registrant: EARL RONALD COMSTOCK, 3654 Pacific 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: Earl Ronald Comstock. 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 August 1, 2012. 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: August 3, 10, 17, 24, 2012.

TST4151 / 2012 156531 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following persons are doing business as: CLARION, 1932 Grace Ave. #2, Los Angeles, CA 90068. Registrant: 1. MICHAEL NISBET, 1932 Grace Ave. #2, Los Angeles, CA 90068, 2. OJAN MISSAGHI, 1853 Whitley Ave. #210, Los Angeles, CA 90028. This business is conducted by: a Limited Partnership. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Michael Nisbet. 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 August 3, 2012. This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on August 3, 2012.

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: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2012.

TST4153 / 2012 158319 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: PIER MEDICAL AESTHETICS, INC., 415 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach, CA 90254. Registrant: METROPOLITAN PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL GROUP, INC., 2810 Sunset View, Signal Hill, CA 90755. This business is conducted by: a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Douglas R. Mest, MD. 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 August 7, 2012. 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: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2012.

TST4154 / 2012 158320 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following person is doing business as: SREYRAT SUPER MARKET, 1133 McFarland Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744. Registrant: RATANA SO CASTILLO, 1133 McFarland Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744. This business is conducted by: an Individual. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Ratana So Castillo. 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 August 7, 2012. 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: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2012.

TST4155 / 2012 158321 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following persons are doing business as: KOINONIA MASS CHOIR, 6346 Droxford St., Lakewood, CA 90713. Registrant: 1. LORENDA JAMISON, 6346 Droxford St., Lakewood, CA 90713, 2. FLORASTENE GRANT, 309 W. Tichenor St., Compton, CA 90220. This business is conducted by: a General Partnership. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Lorenda Jamison. The registrant has begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. The registrant began using this fictitious business name in September, 2002.

This statement was filed with the county clerk of Los Angeles County on August 7, 2012. 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: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2012.

TST4156 / 2012 159752 FICTITIoUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT The following persons are doing business as: EDGEHILL RENTAL, 3043 E. 4th St., Long Beach, CA 90814. Registrant: 1. SATI AH, INC., 3043 E. 4th St., Long Beach, CA 90814, 2. MU ZHANG TRUSTEE OF MU ZHANG TRUST, 1344 Newport Ave., Long Beach, CA 90804. This business is conducted by: a Joint Venture. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. Signed: Sati Ah. 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 August 8, 2012. 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: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2012.

14 SIGNAL TRIBUNE

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the public and local governmental officials. In addition to the formal hearings, Metro conducted several informal presentations during which various speakers described certain aspects of three alternative plans for the project. One was hosted by the North Long Beach Community Action Group (CAG) at the Long Beach Police Department North Substation on Sunday afternoon, which about 30 people attended. The other meeting was hosted by 8th District Long Beach City Councilmember Al Austin at the Expo Arts Center in Bixby Knolls on Monday evening, and about 55 people attended. The information presented at the two meetings was virtually identical.

Dan Pressburg, CAG president, noted that the 710 Freeway is a major

freight corridor for the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. He stressed that, according to recently conducted studies, the current number of shipping containers moving in and out of the ports each year will triple by 2035.

The proposed freeway expansion is aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and reducing air pollution. “One of the impacts [of the proposed project] may be a four-lane raised truck corridor,” Pressburg said. “Other impacts are noise pollution and diesel and particulate matter.”

URS, an Irvine-based consulting firm working under a $22 million contract with Metro, conducted a four-year study on the environmental impacts of alternative plans to improve the 710.

According to Jack Waldron, URS vice president and senior project manager, three major proposals are being considered. They include widening the freeway to 10 general purpose lanes– five

NEWS

in each direction; modernizing and reconfiguring the interchanges connecting the 710 to the 405, 91 and 5 freeways; modernizing the onramps and offramps on the 710; and constructing a separated four-lane freight corridor to be used exclusively by either conventional or zero-emission trucks.

“The project should be up and running by 2030,” Waldron said at the Sunday presentation. “Comments made verbally at the hearings or submitted in writing by Aug. 29, could influence what goes into the final plan that Caltrans will approve.”

Elaborating on Pressburg’s comment, Waldron said that, according to studies conducted for the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, by 2035, 43 million, twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs or cargo containers) will pass through the two ports each year compared to about 16 million TEUs passing through the ports in 2008. According to

AUGUST 10, 2012

Eighth District City Councilmember Al Austin said he was bothered by the fact that proposed plans to expand and improve the 710 Freeway do not include the construction of new soundwalls in the 8th District.

Waldron, studies also show that in 2035, 40 percent of the cargo containers will be transported by direct intermodal rail; 26 percent will be transported by on-dock rail; and the remaining 34 percent will be transported in and out of the ports by trucks. Waldron added that Caltrans and Metro are assuming that there will not be a near-dock intermodal yard expansion by 2035.

Waldron stressed that by 2035 the entire region is projected to experience significant increases in population, employment and port-related activity.

That growth, he noted, will translate into increased traffic volume on the 710, which is already heavily congested during most of the daylight hours.

Waldron explained that improving and expanding the freeway is necessary in order to improve air quality and public health, ease congestion, and increase traffic safety.

“For the past four years, we have been developing a preliminary design and an environmental document that gives you the impacts of that design,” he said. “That environmental document has been released in draft form for public review and comment.”

At the Sunday and Monday presentations, Waldron briefly outlined the past four years of planning and gathering community input on the project, which included setting up committees, conferring with local government officials, and conducting meetings attended by members of the public. Waldron also explained that the project will encompass an 18-mile section of the freeway starting at downtown Long Beach and ending just south of the 60 Freeway.

Waldron told the attendees at the CAG meeting that plans for the 710 have been narrowed down to three basic alternatives. Alternative 1 would keep the freeway in its current state. Alternative 5A would widen the freeway to 10 lanes and modernize the ramps and interchanges. Alternative 6A would do all that 5A would do plus add the freight corridor to be used by conventional trucks using diesel, propane or natural gas as fuel. Alternative 6B would be the same as 6A, but would only allow zero-emissions trucks on the freight corridor. Alternative 6C would include tolls charged to the users of the freight corridor.

Waldron explained that the zeroemissions trucks would use electric engines drawing power from overhead cables while on the freight corridor but would switch back to conventional fuel when they exited. He added that the height of the corridor would vary from ground level to approximately 50 feet above the ground and the poles supporting the electric cables would rise 20 feet above the corridor. He also explained that the freight corridor would only have four access ramps. “Essentially, it would be an express corridor for trucks going to east Los Angeles,” he said.

After Waldron’s presentation, Elizabeth Mahoney, URS senior transportation manager, talked about projected air pollution levels for each of the alternative plans. “The number-one goal is to improve air quality and public health along the 710 corridor,” she said.

“There were a whole series of studies done for this corridor, and all the different types of air pollution created by traffic were evaluated for the basin, for

the study area (which extends one mile on either side of the freeway) and for the area right up against the freeway– about 100 meters on either side of the freeway.”

Mahoney noted that air quality is projected to improve along the 710 corridor during the next 18 years no matter what happens on the 710 because of more stringent California Air Resources Board and Air Quality Management District regulations, the formulation of cleaner-burning diesel, and the ports’ clean-trucks programs. She stressed, however, that the alternatives that require only zero-emissions trucks on the freight corridor would significantly reduce cancer risks in the study area.

According to Mahoney, Alternatives 5A, 6A, 6B or 6C would increase the flow of traffic, thereby reducing drive times on the freeway. “But the freeway would be much more freeflowing in any of the versions of Alternative 6 compared to Alternative 5,” she added.

Mahoney also explained that the draft EIR/EIS contains a section on noise and describes locations where soundwalls would be needed. “All of the geometric plans also show where new soundwalls would be needed,” she said, adding that some soundwalls may be built before work begins on expanding the freeways.

Waldron noted that soundwalls– 12 to 16 feet high– will also be built along sections of the freight corridor.

Austin, however, warned that noisemitigation measures described in the draft EIR/EIS may be inadequate. “For example, the proposed project currently does not call for any new soundwalls in the 8th district,” he said. “I believe that with the expanded freeway, in addition to the Blue Line and other factors, we need new soundwalls and landscaping near our schools and homes that are closest to the freeway.”

Austin also explained that the time period for making comments on the draft EIR/EIS is too short. “The deadline for submitting comments is currently Aug. 29,” he said. “I don’t believe this is enough time for everyone to respond, given how complex this issue is and the 1400 pages that are contained in the draft EIR/EIS.” Austin and several other local and state governmental officials have written letters to Caltrans requesting an extension of the deadline.

The next informative meeting, which will focus on the project’s community impacts, is scheduled for 6pm to 9pm on Aug. 16 in Progress Park Community Center, 15500 Downey Ave., in Paramount.

Electronic versions of the Draft EIR/EIS on compact discs are available for review at public libraries throughout the 710 Corridor. The document may also be viewed online at dot.ca.gov/dist07/resources/envdocs/do cs/710corridor/.

Written comments on the document may be sent to the email feature of the aforementioned website or to: Ronald Kosinski Caltrans District 7, Division of Environmental Planning 100 South Main St., MS 16A Los Angeles, CA 90012

CULTURE

Musicians unite to save a beloved local recording studio

AUGUST 10, 2012

Photos by Adam Buchsbaum/Signal Tribune

Debt threatened The Compound, but a benefit album has given this recording studio new hope.

Adam Buchsbaum Editorial Intern

Anthony Arvizu sat by the console at his recording studio, The Compound, thankful. “It takes a village to raise a studio,” Arvizu observed. The Compound had bleak prospects; indebted like other studios, it was poised to go under. The lease was up, and Arvizu could get out now.

“I’ve made a lot of good records here. Had a lot of good times. Met a lot of great friends...If it ended, I can accept that. I can be happy with that. And just know it was a chapter in my life and I’m moving on,” Arvizu said. “I was thinking it’s time to stop. And I started telling people that. I started talking to different clients, friends, going, ‘You know, I'm thinking about giving it up’ and everyone’s like, ‘No, you can't do that. You can’t. Come on. We need The Compound. We love The Compound. Everyone loves The Compound.’”

Arvizu hatched a plan. He went to former clients and friends for help, asking them to provide him original songs to form a compilation benefit album, to draw awareness to the studio and raise funds.

The 49-tracks result is S.O.S. (Save Our Studio) A Benefit Album. The album includes bands as varied as Avi Buffalo, Phantom Limb and Jay Buchanan.

“I started asking around, and, I got to say, nine out of 10 people said yes,” Arvizu said. “There’s a handful that said no, and I’m still scratching my head as to why.

Everyone has their reasons. But mostly everyone said yes, and that’s just beautiful.” The tracks were mostly recorded at the studio.

One artist, Krista Polvere, traveled from Melbourne, Australia all the way to the quiet Signal Hill spot.

“There was no pressure. It was a free song...it became very clear that everybody had this happy, loose attitude...and as a result we got great songs. Because they were

“Heading out” on a bike ride?

Protect that noggin with a helmet!

having fun,” Arvizu said. “I also think it was the spirit of generosity.

They knew they were doing a good thing, they’re helping out, we’re teaming up and getting family-like.

And I think it made for a good record.”

Arvizu joined The Compound Studio in 2003, after many years of freelancing as a sound engineer. He was always interested in the sound engineering side of making records, even in high school. “I had a quarter-inch four-track machine with a little twelve-channel mixer.

Probably got that when I was 19 years old,” Arvizu said. “I was the guy who’d bring the PA [speakers] and plug in the mics, and I understood the equalizer.”

Arvizu drummed for his band at the time, The National People’s Gang, and handled the recording side. The band would practice and record out of a big space in Irvine where women would jazzercise.

“Our guitarist’s mom would jazzercise. So they got this big space and this big workout room. And then next to it is a smaller room...and that was their nursery,” Arvizu said. “Our guitarist’s mom says, ‘Hey, my kid needs somewhere to practice.’ Jazzercise closed at like 8:00 at night.” The band used the space after hours, sometimes until

6am, and, being in an industrial area, they did not have to worry about bothering residents.

The facility became a makeshift studio. “I would take my four-track recorder, and I would put my drums in the big room, like in a studio...then I’d set up my mixer and some big speakers, like our PA speakers, in the next room where we would rehearse on any other given night,” Arvizu said. “Our bass would just go direct in, and he’d hear himself through these big speakers. We’d put the guitar amp in the bathroom and mic it, and then the singer would just sing through the PA.” Arvizu’s method made the drums isolated, and the band recorded many times.

Increasingly interested in sound engineering, Arvizu enrolled in a program at Golden West College.

He studied there for a year and dropped out once his band got a record deal. “We get thrown into the studio. Now, I’ve gone to school for a year for recording. I’m in the studio making records with my band. I’m living the high life.

I’m like 25 years old and loving it,” Arvizu said. He and the band toured for about three years. The band ended, and, jobless, Arvizu jumped into sound engineering at The Toledo, a now defunct record-

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Anthony Arvizu is the owner of The Compound Studio. He joined The Compound in 2003 and has been there ever since.

ing studio. Freelancing for the Eddie Reed Big Band brought Arvizu to Capitol Records, where Arvizu was amazed at the professionalism and resources of the studio; he later joined Capitol and was there until he joined The Compound.

The Compound was once an empty barn, which founders Ken Negrete and Steve Cross converted into a studio. Arvizu joined as studio owner after Negrete left in 2003, wanting a local place (Capitol is far away from Long Beach, in Hollywood) and a place to call his own. Arvizu also acts as producer or musician on records sometimes, not solely engineer.

Arvizu stayed on as owner even after Cross and another, newer partner left.

His first priority as owner is professionalism. Studio equipment at smaller places besides Capitol was often in a state of disrepair; unhappy with this, Arvizu was and is determined to have The Compound held to the high standards of Capitol. “I don’t want it to be another one of these joker studios like I’ve been going to. I want to go to a place where stuff works, and when stuff doesn’t work we get it repaired,” Arvizu said. “I don’t care if we don’t have any

money. I don’t care if we’re broke.

I don’t want to run a place unless it works.”

The benefit album has already helped The Compound, more so from the press than the profits.

Arvizu described asking for help as a humbling process. “I opened up and said, ‘Hey, I need help,’ and people are coming forward,” Arvizu said. “Let that be a lesson to you. When you need help, ask.

People want to help. I think it’s true. We want to be helpful.”

Investors have approached Arvizu in the album’s aftermath, and there’s talk about setting up a record label out of the studio.

The Compound, 1833 Reservoir Dr., is the only professional recording studio in Long Beach and Signal Hill. “I’ve often thought, ‘Why don’t I go nonprofit status?’ I don’t know exactly what the criteria is, but I certainly don’t make any money here,” Arvizu said, then laughed. “I am not for profit. I basically make just enough money to keep the doors open, and sometimes more than that. And I go into debt...it's totally a labor of love.”

He re-signed the lease for another five years.

MORE INFORMATION compoundstudio.com

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AUGUST 10, 2012

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