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Pop-Up Arcade Brings Nostalgia and Fun to Long Beach
Police Investigate Threatening Video at Lindbergh Middle School
Long Beach Temporarily Closes Coastal Swimming Areas Due to Sewage
Million Dollar Beach Skating Rink Opens in Long Beach After Months of Delays
Two Teenage Girls Injured in Long Beach Parking Lot Shooting

Long Beach Local News This Week 4-23-15

April 24, 2015 LBLN

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Long Beach’s First Beachfront Skating Rink Is No

Long Beach’s First Beachfront Skating Rink Is Now Open

After months of delays, the Junipero Beach Sports Court is officially open at 2630 E. Ocean Blvd. This new $1 million outdoor recreation facility features a roller skating area, full basketball court with seating, and a shaded structure the first of its kind on Long Beach’s coastline. Originally set to open in May 2024, the project faced construction setbacks, but city officials say the result was worth the wait. Long Beach’s vibrant skating community now has a dedicated beachfront space to enjoy. Stop by and check out this exciting new addition to the city’s outdoor scene.

Pop-Up Arcade Brings Nostalgia and Fun to Long Bea

Pop-Up Arcade Brings Nostalgia and Fun to Long Beach

Long Beach is experiencing a wave of gaming nostalgia with the Mimz Arcade Experience, a pop-up arcade event bringing together retro classics and modern favorites. Hosted by a passionate local resident, the arcade offers an interactive escape for gamers of all ages.

Long Beach Local News hit an exclusive interview with Mima Lopez of Long Beach who created Mimz Arcade Experience.

What inspired you to host a pop-up arcade event?

“I wanted to bring a nostalgic, interactive experience to the community that combined arcade classics with modern gaming,” the host shared. “There’s something special about the energy of an arcade — the lights, the sounds, the friendly competition. My goal was to bring an unforgettable experience to Wrigley and Long Beach, offering people of all ages a chance to break away from their daily routines, share joyful moments, and immerse themselves in the Mimz Arcade Experience.”

What types of arcade games are available, and are they free to play?

The event features a diverse selection of games, from modern hits like Super Smash Bros., Call of Duty, Mario Kart 8, and Rocket League to fighting classics such as Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and Tekken. Retro favorites like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Galaga, and Tetris are also crowd-pleasers. Best of all, the arcade is free to attend, with affordable options for private and corporate events.

How long will the pop-up arcade be open, and are there any special events or promotions?

In 2024, the Mimz Arcade Experience made four appearances, typically on a quarterly basis. Hosted at Wrigley Coffee, the event transforms the cozy coffee shop into a buzzing arcade. As its popularity grows, organizers hope to expand to more venues in Long Beach. Fans can stay updated on future events and promotions by following @mimztechgroup on social media.

Read the full article on our website link in bio #longbeach

Police Investigate Threatening Video at Lindbergh

Police Investigate Threatening Video at Lindbergh Middle School

Long Beach Police are investigating a report of a student at Lindbergh Middle School who made a video threatening to kill another student. Authorities received the report around 9:45 a.m. on Friday.

The incident took place at the North Long Beach school and is currently under investigation. Officials have not released further details about the individuals involved or any potential disciplinary actions.

LBPD is working with school officials to assess the situation and ensure student safety. Parents and community members are urged to remain vigilant as the investigation continues.

More updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Long Beach Temporarily Closes Coastal Swimming Are

Long Beach Temporarily Closes Coastal Swimming Areas Due to Sewage Spill

Long Beach, CA – Long Beach health officials have temporarily closed all open coastal swimming areas due to a sewage spill that originated in Rowland Heights, more than 30 miles away. The spill, caused by a grease blockage in a main sewer line, resulted in the overflow of 10,500 gallons of sewage, which is expected to reach Long Beach waters via the San Gabriel River.

Long Beach City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis issued the closure order in accordance with state law, which requires temporary beach closures in such cases to protect public health. The affected areas will remain off-limits for water contact until water quality testing confirms that conditions meet state safety standards.

In addition to the closure, a rain advisory is currently in effect, recommending that residents and visitors avoid ocean water contact for 72 hours following significant rainfall. Unlike the rain advisory, which is a precautionary measure, the sewage spill has caused a mandatory closure.

City workers are posting signs along the waterfront to inform the public of the closure. Residents and visitors can check the latest updates on water conditions by calling the city’s water hotline at 562.570.4199 or visiting longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.

The Long Beach Health Department’s Recreational Water Quality team is closely monitoring bacterial levels along the coast. Routine water testing will continue until results confirm that it is safe to reopen the beaches for swimming. In the meantime, officials urge the community to avoid water contact to prevent potential health risks.

Million Dollar Beach Skating Rink Opens in Long Be

Two Teenage Girls Injured in Long Beach Parking Lo

Two Teenage Girls Injured in Long Beach Parking Lot Shooting

Two teenage girls were wounded in a shooting at a parking lot near a Long Beach strip mall, authorities reported Monday.

According to the Long Beach Police Department, the incident took place around 9:17 p.m. Sunday near Anaheim Street and Elm Avenue. Preliminary findings suggest that one or more suspects fired into a group of people, striking the two girls.

Their injuries were not considered life-threatening, and they transported themselves to a hospital for treatment, police said.

The shooting comes with a rise in crime across Long Beach, with residents expressing growing concerns over increased crime in the area. Police have not released information on a possible motive or suspects as the investigation continues.

Long Beach Fire Department Faces Shortage of Rescu

Long Beach Fire Department Faces Shortage of Rescue Units Amid Rising 911 Calls @longbeachfirefighters @longbeachfire

At a recent Long Beach City Council meeting, firefighters spoke out about past budget cuts that reduced rescue units, urging leaders to prioritize emergency services. City officials acknowledge the crisis but cite budget shortfalls as a challenge.

The Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) is facing a critical shortage of emergency rescue units as 911 calls surge, leading to delayed response times and strained resources.

Firefighter Philip Hamlin shared a tragic account of a woman who suffered cardiac arrest while waiting for an available rescue unit. “Long Beach was out of rescues. We waited while her family pleaded with us to do something. She didn’t survive.”

Paramedics report running nonstop calls, often without breaks. “We don’t have enough ambulances to meet demand,” said one veteran paramedic.

Mayor Rex Richardson highlighted past budget decisions that have impacted emergency response times. “Our system is the sum of its parts. I recall in 2010, during Steve Neal’s second council meeting, the budget proposed cutting Paramedic Rescue 12. The chambers were packed—but with people holding signs to save the Municipal Band, not Rescue 12. The band kept playing, but the rescue was cut, leading to three-minute slower response times in North Long Beach and a minute citywide.”

With ambulance shortages leading to longer wait times for life-threatening emergencies, firefighters and residents are demanding immediate action.

Read more about this on our website link in bio

Police Respond to Vehicle Collision Involving Two

Police Respond to Vehicle Collision Involving Two Children in Overturned Car

Police are currently on the scene of a vehicle collision involving two young children in an overturned car at Wardlow and Lakewood just before 8AM. LBFD is evaluating the children and the driver.

Details about the cause of the crash and the condition of those involved have not yet been released. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

Long Beach will receive $11 million from Californi

Long Beach will receive $11 million from California’s Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) program to address homelessness along a 9.5-mile stretch of the Los Angeles Riverbed, the city’s largest and longest-standing encampment. City officials say the funding will help connect unhoused individuals to shelter and permanent housing, but concerns remain about whether it will lead to lasting change, especially given Long Beach’s ongoing shelter bed shortage and housing project delays.

The city has had some success with previous ERF initiatives, with 49% of participants in one program securing permanent housing. Currently, 64 people are in shelters and 10 have been housed through an ongoing effort. However, homelessness remains a significant issue, with over a thousand people unsheltered and 92% of those in the riverbed experiencing homelessness for a year or more. The encampment’s location poses health and safety risks, given its proximity to freeways and limited emergency response access.

Mayor Rex Richardson called the funding a step toward restoring the riverbed as a “cleaner, safer, and more accessible space.” The city plans to use the funds to transition individuals into non-congregate shelters and, ultimately, permanent housing. However, Long Beach currently has only around 530 shelter beds—far fewer than needed. Additionally, a planned shelter at a renovated North Long Beach motel has been delayed due to construction setbacks, further limiting options.

Critics argue that clearing encampments without enough shelter capacity leads to displacement rather than real solutions. Concerns have also grown over the city’s ability to manage homelessness funds effectively. Long Beach recently had to return $5.6 million in state grants after failing to find a suitable location for a tiny home village, citing concerns about noise and air pollution. With shelter shortages and lost funding, the key question remains: Will this $11 million investment create real change, or is it another temporary fix for a long-term crisis?

Read more on our website link in bio

Long Beach Police Seize Guns, Ammo, and Drugs in H

Long Beach Police Seize Guns, Ammo, and Drugs in High Crime Focus Team Bust

LONG BEACH, CA — A late-night police operation by the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) led to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and drugs, culminating in the arrest of a prohibited possessor.

On Saturday night, officers from the LBPD High Crime Focus Team executed a search warrant in the 1400 block of San Francisco Avenue. During the operation, authorities recovered four firearms, a cache of ammunition, and methamphetamine. The male suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, was taken into custody and determined to be a prohibited possessor, meaning he was legally barred from owning firearms.

The High Crime Focus Team, established in May 2024, has been instrumental in proactive crime-fighting efforts across the city. The unit focuses on removing illegal guns from the streets, making arrests, and engaging with residents and businesses to enhance public safety.

No further details about the suspect or potential charges have been released at this time.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Three car collision on Cherry just south of Carson

Three car collision on Cherry just south of Carson. No serious injuries reported. The collision occurred just after 11 AM today northbound Cherry closed, heavy traffic in the area. LBPD and LBFD are on scene investigating.

Long Beach Police Department to Conduct DUI/Driver

Long Beach Police Department to Conduct DUI/Driver License Checkpoint Friday

Long Beach, CA – On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) will conduct a DUI/Driver License checkpoint from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. in the North Division area.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on data indicating high rates of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary goal of these checkpoints is to enhance public safety by identifying and removing impaired drivers from the road.

“Impaired drivers pose a serious threat to everyone’s safety,” said Commander Jeremy Boshnack. “By taking proactive measures to prevent impaired driving, we can make a significant impact on reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities.”

LBPD reminds the public that impairment isn’t limited to alcohol. Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can also affect a person’s ability to drive safely. Additionally, while both medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal in California, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.

A first-time DUI conviction can result in an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended driver’s license.

This checkpoint is funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Authorities Search for Inmate Who Escaped Long Bea

Authorities Search for Inmate Who Escaped Long Beach Reentry Facility

LONG BEACH, Calif. — Authorities are searching for a 23-year-old inmate who escaped from a Long Beach reentry facility Tuesday night, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).

The inmate, identified as Evans L. Eithan, fled the Male Community Reentry Program facility around 7:20 p.m. after getting into the passenger seat of a gray Jeep four-door pickup truck. Despite an immediate search of the buildings and surrounding area, officials were unable to locate him.

Eithan is described as 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 185 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and gray shorts.

Eithan had been serving a three-year, four-month sentence for first-degree burglary, evading arrest while driving recklessly, and resisting a peace officer. He was admitted to the reentry center on June 12, 2024.

The CDCR’s Office of Correctional Safety, along with local law enforcement agencies, is actively searching for Eithan. Authorities have not determined where he may be headed.

The Male Community Reentry Program is designed to help eligible state prison inmates transition back into society by allowing them to serve the final portion of their sentences in a supervised environment. Participation in the program is voluntary and limited to offenders with two years or less remaining on their sentences.

Officials urge anyone with information about Eithan’s whereabouts to contact Special Agent Abraham Villasenor at 760-936-1851, their local law enforcement agency, or dial 911.

Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, A

Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, Aiming for Improved Animal Care Services

The City of Long Beach has officially ended its 26-year partnership with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA), citing non-compliance with the lease agreement and ongoing operational concerns. The termination requires spcaLA to vacate the Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) campus within 30 days, marking a significant shift in the city’s approach to animal care.

For decades, spcaLA has operated on city-owned land adjacent to the LBACS facility, paying just $120 per year for the lease. Additionally, the city has covered 50% of the operating costs for the entire campus, despite concerns that spcaLA has not been fulfilling its obligations under the agreement. The city’s decision to terminate the partnership stems from long-standing issues, including space limitations, failure to comply with municipal reporting laws, and a drastic reduction in the number of adoptions facilitated by spcaLA.

Local animal activists have had a long love-hate relationship with spcaLA at the Long Beach facility. Many activists viewed the organization as one that emphasized money over adoption, often prioritizing financial interests over the well-being of the animals in its care. Over the years, these concerns have fueled frustration among rescue groups and volunteers who have criticized spcaLA’s lack of transparency and reluctance to take in more adoptable animals from LBACS.

Long Beach officials are prepared to take legal action if spcaLA does not vacate the premises within the given 30-day timeframe. In the meantime, LBACS is working with partner rescue organizations to ensure a smooth transition and will provide updates on expanded adoption programs and services in the coming weeks. The city encourages residents to visit longbeach.gov/acs for updates on adoption events and shelter initiatives.

Long Beach Local News reached out to spcaLA and we are waiting to hear back with a statement.

Read more about this on our website

Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS Long Beac

Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS

Long Beach, CA – A shooting occurred on Saturday at approximately 2:55 AM in front of a CVS located at 4400 Los Coyotes Diagonal. The Long Beach Police and Long Beach Fire responded to the scene after reports of gunfire.

Authorities found a male victim with a gunshot wound to the lower body. The victim, who remains conscious and breathing, was attended to by emergency personnel. Preliminary witness accounts suggest the man may be a CVS employee who attempted to intervene in a shoplifting incident moments before the shooting.

According to witnesses, three female suspects fled the scene in a white Mercedes-Benz sedan shortly after the incident. Details about the suspects and the vehicle remain limited as the investigation unfolds.
LBPD officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and no arrests have been reported at this time.

This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

*LBUSD asked us to replace the photo with a more f

*LBUSD asked us to replace the photo with a more fitting image*

LBUSD Expands Access to Menstrual Products Under California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act

Long Beach Unified Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusivity and Equity Amid Mixed Reactions

February 19, 2025 – Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all students, staff, and families—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community—amid societal and political challenges that seek to divide rather than unite.

The district emphasized that its dedication to Excellence and Equity drives every decision, ensuring that every student, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, background, race, faith, disability, or immigration status, feels seen, safe, and supported. LBUSD stated that it rejects any attempt to undermine dignity or deny access to inclusive education.

As part of this commitment, the district is expanding mental health support, addressing disparities in education, and fostering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students, families, and staff. The district also highlighted the importance of celebrating diversity and closing achievement gaps.

Additionally, LBUSD is implementing California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act, ensuring free menstrual products are available in all girls’ restrooms, gender-neutral restrooms, and at least one boys’ restroom on each campus. This initiative, which began in the 2024-25 school year, applies to students in grades 3-12, with dispensers being installed across school sites.

However, not all parents are sure this is the right approach. Some have expressed concerns about the focus on LGBTQ+ issues in schools, questioning whether these initiatives align with all families’ values. Others worry about how these policies will be implemented and what impact they may have on students.

Despite differing opinions, LBUSD maintains that creating an inclusive and accepting environment is essential for student success. The district encourages families to learn more about its efforts by visiting lbschools.net/LGBTQ.

Congressman Garcia Faces Censure Over Elon Musk ‘Dick Pic’ Remarks, Escalating Political Tensions

The political landscape in Washington has been rocked by a heated controversy involving Representative Robert Garcia (former Mayor of Long Beach) and tech billionaire Elon Musk, who currently holds a role in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The situation has escalated to the point where House Republicans, led by Rep. Nancy Mace, have introduced a resolution to censure Garcia over his recent remarks, which some have interpreted as a call for violence against Musk.

The Controversial Remarks

The uproar began during a House subcommittee hearing when Garcia criticized Musk’s leadership and policies. At one point, he referred to Musk as a “dick” and later, in a CNN interview, stated “What I think is really important and what the American public want is for us to bring actual weapons to this bar fight. This is an actual fight for democracy, for the future of this country. And it’s important to push back on the chairperson of this committee” when discussing opposition to Musk’s policies. These remarks quickly ignited backlash, with critics accusing Garcia of inciting violence against a federal official.

Republican Response and Calls for Censure

Rep. Nancy Mace responded swiftly, labeling Garcia’s words as “dangerous and deranged.” She argued that no elected official should make statements that could be interpreted as advocating violence, regardless of intent. Mace has filed a formal resolution to censure Garcia, a move that, if passed, would require him to stand before the House for a public reading of his reprimand.

DOJ Inquiry Adds Legal Pressure

The controversy has now drawn the attention of the U.S. Department of Justice. In a letter dated February 17, U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. formally requested that Garcia clarify his statements, citing concerns that they could be perceived as a threat to Musk and government employees working under him.

Read more on our website link in bio #longbeach

Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured,

Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured, Dog Wounded

A shooting on the 1400 block of Rose Avenue left one person injured and their dog also wounded, according to Long Beach Police at 11:23PM Wednesday night.

Officers from the Long Beach Police and paramedics from the Long Beach Fire responded to the scene at approximately 11:23 p.m. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the lower body but was reported to be conscious and breathing.

Witnesses in the area reported seeing a vehicle driving by as shots were fired. Officers discovered shell casings and multiple vehicles with strike marks at the scene. The northbound lanes of Rose Avenue are currently blocked north of Anaheim Street as the investigation continues.

In an update, LBPD confirmed that officers were transporting the victim’s injured dog to an emergency veterinary clinic.

Authorities have not released any suspect information at this time. The investigation remains ongoing. Notified by @streaming562

Armed Suspect Robs Brink’s Armored Truck Outside

Armed Suspect Robs Brink’s Armored Truck Outside Chase Bank

A man armed with a rifle robbed a Brink’s armored vehicle outside a Chase Bank near Spring Street and Palo Verde Avenue around 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, police reported.

According to authorities, the suspect stole the driver’s handgun and an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.

Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male wearing a ski mask and green, Army-style clothing. He was estimated to be between 5’6” and 5’8” tall.

A witnessed of the robbery saw from the Amazon parking lot across the street that they initially thought the altercation involved homeless individuals before realizing it was a robbery in progress.

“I was across the street in the Amazon parking lot when I heard and saw the struggle. I thought at first it was a couple of homeless until I saw one suspect pulling something from the armored driver. The suspect I saw had a rifle in his left arm. They got into a silver car and left west on Spring,”

Police have not released any further details on the suspect or vehicle. No injuries were immediately reported.

This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as information becomes available. Photo by Kristin Schroyer

Police are investigating two separate violent inci

Police are investigating two separate violent incidents that occurred overnight, leaving two men injured.

The first incident took place on Feb. 18, 2025, at approximately 8:08 p.m. at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Artesia Boulevard. Officers responded to reports of a stabbing and found a male adult suffering from non-life-threatening stab wounds to the upper body. Paramedics from the Long Beach Fire Department transported the victim to a local hospital. Authorities are still investigating the motive, circumstances, and suspect information.

Hours later, at 3:02 a.m. on Feb. 19, 2025, officers were called to the 2000 block of Cedar Avenue following reports of a shooting. They discovered a male adult with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to the lower body. Investigators believe the victim was walking outside when he was approached by a male suspect on a bicycle, who then opened fire before fleeing the scene. The victim was also transported to a local hospital by paramedics.

Both cases remain under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

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