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Diesel Spill Shuts Down Northbound 710 Freeway in Long Beach
Young Patients Dive into Animal Care for National Dolphin Day at the Aquarium of the Pacific
City of Long Beach to Host 11 Olympic Events in 2028
Long Beach City Delays Nearly 2 Years to Disclose Breach Exposing SSNs, IDs, Biometric Data
One Dead in Shooting Near Long Beach Grand Prix

Long Beach City College offering new cannabis course

October 21, 2020October 21, 2020 LBLN

More info: https://www.lbcc.edu/post/introduction-cannabis-industry

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@millerchildrens Young Patients Become Animal Care

@millerchildrens Young Patients Become Animal Care Experts for a Day at @aquariumpacific

In celebration of National Dolphin Day on April 14, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach hosted young patients from Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital for a unique, hands-on experience exploring the world of veterinary care led by the hospital’s beloved mascot, Millie the Dolphin.

Dressed in lab coats, pediatric patients stepped into the role of animal care experts for the day, learning how veterinarians treat and heal marine life. From cleaning and bandaging an “injured” plush puffin to listening to a tortoise’s heartbeat and watching how anesthesia is safely administered to large animals, the kids saw just how similar animal care is to their own medical experiences.

“For Millie’s special day, we wanted to give our patients a chance to connect with healing in a new way,” said Rita Goshert, director of the Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program. “It was incredible to watch them play, learn, and smile outside the hospital.”

Led by Aquarium veterinarian Dr. Brittany Stevens and vet tech Louise Leborgne, the visit offered an empowering parallel between human and animal healthcare. Real X-rays, medical tools, and recovery stories helped the children see themselves not just as patients, but as healers too.

Among the participants was 7-year-old Sage, who has been receiving treatment for leukemia. For her mother, the event was more than just educational, it was emotional. “She’s spent so much time being cared for. Seeing her as the one giving care was so powerful.”

This special Dolphin Day reminded everyone that resilience, compassion, and care are universal whether you walk on two legs or swim with fins.

City of Long Beach to Host 11 Olympic Events in 20

City of Long Beach to Host 11 Olympic Events in 2028

Long Beach, CA – In a major development for the 2028 Olympic Games, the City of Long Beach has been officially confirmed to host 11 sporting events, more than double the number originally proposed during LA’s initial bid. The announcement was made today following the International Olympic Committee Executive Board’s approval of the updated LA28 Olympic Venue Plan on April 9, 2025.

Originally slated for just five events, Long Beach’s role in the Olympics has significantly expanded, raising both excitement and serious questions about the city’s preparedness. The added events include Beach Volleyball, Coastal Rowing, Sport Climbing, and Target Shooting joining the previously confirmed lineup of Sailing, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Marathon Swimming, Canoe-Sprint, Rowing, and Handball.

Highlights of the updated plan include:
• Beach Volleyball at Alamitos Beach
• Coastal Rowing making its Olympic debut along the Long Beach waterfront
• Sport Climbing and Target Shooting in the Long Beach Convention Center lot, with temporary venues offering striking ocean views

In total, the events will be spread across six locations in the city. While the expanded role promises increased international visibility and economic benefits, it also brings substantial logistical and infrastructural challenges.

Long Beach has already launched a Strategic Roadmap and a dedicated LA28 webpage to guide preparations, but with just over three years to go before the opening ceremonies on July 14, 2028, questions remain: Can Long Beach deliver on this promise? Is the city truly ready to take on the increased scope of Olympic hosting duties?

While the economic and cultural potential is enormous, success will depend on timely infrastructure upgrades, effective crowd management strategies, and coordination with LA28 to ensure everything is ready by 2028. As the spotlight turns to Long Beach, the world will be watching not just the games, but how the city rises to this historic occasion.

Read more details on our website link in bio

#LA28 #LongBeach2028 #Olympics2028 #RoadToLA28

Long Beach City Delays Nearly 2 Years to Disclose

Long Beach City Delays Nearly 2 Years to Disclose Breach Exposing SSNs, IDs, Biometric Data

Long Beach, CA – April 14, 2025 – In a long-awaited move, the City of Long Beach is notifying individuals whose personal information may have been compromised in a November 2023 cyberattack—17 months after the incident occurred.

The breach, which involved an unauthorized party accessing the City’s network, was initially disclosed in late 2023. But only now is the City issuing official notices to affected individuals and offering free credit monitoring services for some. The delay raises serious questions about why it took so long to alert the public, especially given the nature of the sensitive data involved.

According to officials, the breached files may have contained names alongside Social Security numbers, financial account details, medical information, driver’s license numbers, and even biometric data. While the City maintains there’s no evidence of fraud or misuse, the sheer scope of exposed personal information has sparked concern.

“Data security is of the utmost importance,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We will continue to be as transparent as we can.” But with the notification letters only going out now, many residents are left wondering: Why wasn’t this level of transparency offered sooner?

City Manager Tom Modica defended the timeline, citing the complexity of the forensic investigation, which was only completed in March 2025. “We understand this news may resurface concern and angst for our residents,” Modica said, assuring the public that cybersecurity remains a top priority.

A dedicated call center is now available at 888-802-9667 to answer questions, though callers are warned not to share personal information over the phone.

To bolster security going forward, the City has invested $1 million in its FY 2025 budget for cybersecurity infrastructure, training, and data loss prevention. But for those potentially affected, that may be little comfort.

More information, including multilingual FAQs, can be found at longbeach.gov/networksecurityincident.

Earthquake felt in Long Beach at 10:08am. A magnit

Earthquake felt in Long Beach at 10:08am. A magnitude 6.0 (downgraded to a 5.2) - 3 km NE of San Diego, California

One Dead in Shooting Near Long Beach Grand Prix A

One Dead in Shooting Near Long Beach Grand Prix

A man was fatally shot Saturday evening near the Long Beach Grand Prix, marking a troubling recurrence of violence near the annual event.

According to the Long Beach Police Department, officers were called to the 0 block of Cedar Walk just across from The Pike Outlets shopping center around 5:50 p.m. They arrived to find a male victim with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been released.

The shooting happened while races were still underway, just a block from the Grand Prix track. A witness told police that four men were seen running from the area.

In addition to Long Beach police, agents from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security also responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.

This is not the first time gun violence has disrupted the Grand Prix weekend. A separate shooting occurred near the event two years ago, raising concerns about public safety during the popular racing event.

Long Beach Police Investigating Fatal Shooting on

Long Beach Police Investigating Fatal Shooting on 45th Street

Long Beach, CA – Homicide detectives are investigating the fatal shooting of a 56-year-old man that occurred early Saturday morning in the city’s Central Long Beach neighborhood.

On April 12, 2025, at approximately 12:24 a.m., Long Beach Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 1900 block of 45th Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered a male adult suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound to the upper body.

Officers administered emergency medical aid until Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived and pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.

The victim has been identified as Travis Lee Robinson Sr., a Long Beach resident.

Homicide detectives responded to the location and are currently investigating the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact Homicide Detectives Michael Hubbard and Lisette Temblador at (562) 570-7244.

Super Truck Racer Zoey Edenholm @zoeyeracing Visit

Super Truck Racer Zoey Edenholm @zoeyeracing Visits @millerchildrens Miller Children’s Hospital Ahead of Grand Prix @gplongbeach

Before hitting 150 mph at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, @stadiumsupertrucks driver Zoey Edenholm made a special stop visiting young patients at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital on Thursday, April 10.

Wearing her hot pink racing suit, the 24-year-old racer brought books, autographs, and plenty of smiles as she visited kids in their rooms and play areas. The patients lit up as Edenholm shared stories about racing, showed off her helmet, and talked about being the only woman in her race category this weekend.

“It’s so cool to share my experience and talk to the kids about being in a pink truck and being a woman in motorsports,” said Edenholm, who’s made this hospital visit an annual tradition. “Having a supportive community here during the Long Beach Grand Prix makes it all the more special.”

Edenholm’s journey started at 11, when she traded gymnastics dreams for go-karts and speed. By 15, she committed to racing professionally. “I wanted to be a role model for the next generation to show girls they can make it beyond karting and into cars,” she said.

Now racing with Robby Gordon Motorsports since 2021, Edenholm is not only blazing trails on the track — she’s also learned how to navigate the business side of the sport. “You have to find your own funding to race. I’ve learned to be genuine and align with partners who share my values.”

Hospital staff praised her ability to connect. “This is her second visit during Grand Prix weekend, and the kids absolutely light up when she’s here,” said Rita Goshert, director of the Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program.

Catch Edenholm on the track this weekend — and off the track, continuing to inspire with horsepower and heart.

#AGPLB #ZoeyEdenholm #StadiumSuperTrucks #WomenInMotorsport #LongBeachGrandPrix #MotorsportWithHeart #MillerChildrensHospital

Long Beach Police Seek Public’s Help in Solving

Long Beach Police Seek Public’s Help in Solving Hit-and-Run Crash Near Del Amo Boulevard

The Long Beach Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a hit-and-run collision that took place on the morning of March 26, 2025, near Del Amo Boulevard and Brayton Avenue.

According to investigators, the crash occurred around 9:07 a.m. when a dark-colored Toyota pickup truck traveling westbound on Del Amo Boulevard struck a silver Hyundai. After the collision, the truck’s driver exited the vehicle to inspect the damage, then got back in and fled the scene, heading north on Brayton Avenue.

Suspect Description:

Gender: Male
Race: White or Hispanic
Hair: Brown hair and beard
Weight: Heavy set
Clothing:
Black hooded sweatshirt
Multi-colored pajama pants
Light-colored “Croc” style shoes
Vehicle Description:

Dark-colored Toyota pickup truck

The driver of the Hyundai was transported to a local hospital by Long Beach Fire Department personnel. They sustained moderate injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect or the vehicle to contact the Collision Investigation Detail at 562-570-7355.

Robbery at Long Beach Jewelry Store, Suspects at L

Robbery at Long Beach Jewelry Store, Suspects at Large

Long Beach, CA – April 8, 2025 — Long Beach police are investigating a violent robbery that occurred at a Bixby Knolls jewelry store Tuesday afternoon, leaving one employee injured.

The incident happened around 12:40 p.m. at Gems and Jewels, located at 4130 Atlantic Avenue.

Witnesses say the robbery began when a young woman walked into the store and used pepper spray. Moments later, five to six men jumped out of an SUV and stormed inside. The entire robbery was over in less than a minute.

Police have not released information on what, if anything, was taken, and no suspect descriptions have been made public. The robbery remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Long Beach Police Department.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow.

Three Injured in Two Separate Long Beach Shootings

Three Injured in Two Separate Long Beach Shootings

Long Beach, CA — April 8, 2025 – Long Beach police are investigating two separate shootings that left three men injured Monday evening.

The first incident occurred at approximately 8:19 p.m. in the 400 block of East Plymouth Street. Officers responded to reports of a hit shooting and found two adult male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. One victim had been shot in the upper body, and the other sustained a wound to the lower body. Both were transported by Long Beach Fire Department personnel to a local hospital and are reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.

According to preliminary reports, the victims were standing near a driveway when they were approached by a male suspect who opened fire before fleeing the scene on foot. The motive for the shooting is currently unknown, and no suspect information has been released.

Just one minute later, at approximately 8:20 p.m., officers were dispatched to a local hospital regarding a separate shooting victim. They arrived to find an adult male with a gunshot wound to the lower body. Investigators later located evidence of a shooting in the 2800 block of Long Beach Boulevard, which is believed to be connected to the hospital visit. The victim’s injuries were also described as non-life-threatening. As with the Plymouth Street incident, the motive and circumstances remain under investigation.

Anyone with information about either case is urged to contact the Long Beach Police Department.

Lucky Strike Bowling Alley Coming to LBX Long Beac

Lucky Strike Bowling Alley Coming to LBX Long Beach Exchange

A new entertainment destination is on its way to East Long Beach, as city officials have officially approved plans to convert a former hardware store into a Lucky Strike bowling alley and entertainment center at the Long Beach Exchange.

In a unanimous 5-0 vote Thursday night, the Long Beach Planning Commission greenlit the necessary permits for the transformation of a long-vacant Orchard Supply Hardware location into a 40,000-square-foot facility featuring bowling, arcade games, dining, and more. The project is located at 4100 E. Carson Street, near the Long Beach Airport, within the Douglass Park shopping area.

Lucky Strike, an upscale bowling lounge known for its mix of modern and retro aesthetics, already operates three venues across Los Angeles County. Its Long Beach location is expected to house 34 bowling lanes, three separate arcade zones, a full bar, restaurant, prize room, and various support spaces such as offices and storage.

In addition to interior upgrades, the project includes extensive exterior renovations. The developers plan to fully enclose the 6,760-square-foot outdoor garden center formerly attached to the hardware store, adding it to the indoor footprint of the entertainment complex. The building’s façade will be redesigned, with the south side facing the parking lot and the west side along Worsham Avenue receiving the most substantial visual updates.

The project is being spearheaded by San Jose-based DJM Capital, the operator of the Long Beach Exchange retail and dining hub, which also includes The Hangar a popular 17,000-square-foot food hall located just across the street.

City officials praised the proposal during the Planning Commission meeting, calling it a productive use of a property that has been empty since 2019 and a boost for the surrounding commercial zone. Situated between Long Beach Airport and Lakewood Golf Course, the 238-acre Douglass Park area is considered a key economic corridor for the city.

Construction timelines and an opening date for the new Lucky Strike location have not yet been announced.

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center First in Ca

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center First in California to Adopt Advanced Spine Surgery Technology

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center is the first in California to implement Stryker’s Q Guidance System with Spine Guidance Software—revolutionizing spinal surgery with advanced surgical planning and computer-assisted navigation.

This state-of-the-art system enhances precision in both open and minimally invasive procedures, reduces surgery time, and improves patient outcomes. It combines optical tracking, intelligent algorithms, and advanced instrumentation to provide spine surgeons with unmatched accuracy and efficiency.

“The Q Guidance System truly streamlines every aspect of spine surgery,” says Dr. Brandon Ortega, spine surgeon at MemorialCare Orthopedic & Spine Institute. “It improves precision and allows for customized approaches to optimize patient outcomes.”

The system’s proprietary camera enables rapid calibration and registration of surgical instruments in under two seconds using both active and passive optical tracking. Its intuitive Spine Guidance Software features a modern interface and customizable dashboards that allow surgeons to tailor the system to their workflow.

“When paired with the Airo TruCT scanner, the platform simplifies intraoperative decision-making with suggestion-based tools,” Dr. Ortega adds. “It’s intuitive, efficient, and adaptable.”

Stryker’s Q Guidance System supports a wide range of spinal procedures with gesture recognition, compatibility with various spine screw systems, and a customizable interface—giving surgeons the flexibility to meet the demands of each procedure.

By adopting this cutting-edge technology, MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center strengthens its commitment to delivering the highest level of care in spine surgery.

For more information visit our website.

Thousands Celebrate Khmer Culture at 17th Annual C

Thousands Celebrate Khmer Culture at 17th Annual Cambodia Town Parade and Festival

Long Beach, CA – April 6, 2025 — By Ken Heang

The streets of Long Beach were filled with color, music, and tradition yesterday as thousands gathered for the 17th annual Cambodia Town Parade and Cultural Festival, one of the city’s most cherished events.

This year introduced a new parade route and festival location, but the spirit remained the same—celebrating community, heritage, and unity. The day began with an interfaith blessing on Anaheim Street in front of MacArthur Park, followed by a lively parade featuring traditional dancers, marching bands, and community groups. The procession moved along Anaheim and Alamitos, ending at Long Beach City College’s Pacific Coast Campus.

At the campus, the Cultural Festival kicked off with live music, dance, games, Khmer artisans, and an abundance of traditional Cambodian food. “We have all kinds of Cambodian food. We welcome people to walk around and try it all,” said Cambodia Town board member Richer San. “Along with peace, this event allows us to promote our community and welcome others into it.”

Originally created in 2005 to celebrate the Cambodian New Year and bring together Long Beach’s Cambodian population—the largest outside of Southeast Asia—the event has grown into a multicultural celebration. In 2007, the city officially designated a stretch of Anaheim Street as “Cambodia Town,” recognizing the community’s lasting impact.

Sunday’s celebration highlighted the strength and pride of Long Beach’s Cambodian-American community, while inviting people from all walks of life to experience the richness of Khmer culture. The Cambodia Town Parade and Festival continues to serve as a vibrant reminder of tradition, resilience, and unity.

Whale dies days after straying into waters of Long

Whale dies days after straying into waters of Long Beach Queensway Bay

A whale has been found dead days after it wandered into the waters of Long Beach’s Queensway Bay and Catalina Express Ferry Harbor, officials said Sunday.

“The minke whale that had been circling within Long Beach Harbor for much of the week was unfortunately found dead this morning, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said in a statement. “NOAA Fisheries is working with local officials to determine how best to access and examine the carcass to learn what happened to the whale. We will share more information when it becomes available.”

On Thursday morning, witnesses saw the whale circling in the harbor and attracting onlookers near the Catalina Express dock. The witness mentioned the massive marine mammal swimming around in the area near Golden Shore Drive and Shoreline Village, across from the Queen Mary. Just how long the whale had been in the harbor was unclear.
Chelsea Quezada, a spokesperson for the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific, confirmed it was a minke whale.

There were efforts to remove some booms near the exit to the harbor to give the whale more room to leave, using noise to encourage it to swim toward the exit, an NOAA spokesperson said. “The whale did actually briefly head out but then reversed back into the harbor and remained there,” the agency said Thursday. “For the time being now the team is standing down to see if the whale finds its way out on its own.

This does happen with different whale species from time to time in different harbors and bays and usually they find their way out on their own within a few days.” Photo by KTLA Sky5

Man Stabbed During Argument at Shoreline Village;

Man Stabbed During Argument at Shoreline Village; Suspect at Large

LONG BEACH — A man was injured in a stabbing Saturday evening following a dispute at Shoreline Village, authorities said.

Police responded around 7:30 p.m. to the 400 block of Shoreline Village Drive, where they found a man suffering from a non-life-threatening stab wound to his upper body, according to Long Beach police Lt. John Hotchkiss.

Investigators learned the victim had gotten into a verbal altercation with another man, who then struck him with an unknown object before fleeing the scene, Hotchkiss said.

Paramedics with the Long Beach Fire Department transported the victim to a hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

The investigation remains ongoing. No further details were immediately available.

Vegetation Fire Near Carmelitos Community Garden i

Vegetation Fire Near Carmelitos Community Garden in Long Beach

Long Beach Fire Department responded to reports of a vegetation fire near Atlantic Avenue and East 56th Street, behind the Carmelitos Community Garden today. The fire was extinguished quickly around 10:50 AM.

MemorialCare Miller Children’s Hospital Long Bea

MemorialCare Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach Celebrates Autism Awareness Day

LONG BEACH, CA – MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach marked Autism Awareness Day with a vibrant community event dedicated to promoting acceptance and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Organized by the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, the event brought together patients, families, hospital staff, and community members for a day filled with activities, education, and celebration.

The hospital participated in the global “Light It Up Blue” initiative, illuminating its exterior in blue to honor individuals with autism. Attendees, including members of the Long Beach Fire Department and volunteers from the community, held 36 blue puzzle pieces and one white puzzle piece—symbolizing the 1 in 36 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S. The celebration also featured sensory-friendly activities such as slime-making and bubble stations, as well as interactions with the hospital’s beloved mascot, Millie the Dolphin.

Dr. Ioana Pal, a clinical psychologist at the Stramski Developmental Center, emphasized the importance of raising awareness, stating, “Autism is a spectrum, and every child’s journey is unique. Through events like this, we help build a more inclusive society.” The event also served as an opportunity for families to learn more about autism diagnosis and early intervention services offered at the hospital.

Sumer Temple, a member of the Board of Directors for the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the broad-reaching impact of autism, saying, “Autism is something that intersects many places, and so many people are also impacted. Also, LGBTQ and autistic individuals share overlapping experiences, so there are many connections across different communities. We all need to come together with acceptance.”

The Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, which has supported children with autism and other developmental conditions for nearly 50 years, continues to be a vital resource for families in Southern California. @millerchildrens

Traffic Collision and Vehicle Fire at Del Amo and

Traffic Collision and Vehicle Fire at Del Amo and Cherry

Long Beach, CA – April 3, 2025 – A traffic collision at the intersection of Del Amo Boulevard and Cherry Avenue resulted in a vehicle fire around 1 p.m. today, causing significant disruptions in the area.

LBFD and LBPD arrived on the scene shortly after the crash, working to extinguish the flames and assist those involved. It is unclear how many vehicles were involved or if there were any injuries. Authorities have temporarily closed portions of the intersection as they investigate the incident and clear the wreckage. Three people rushed to local hospitals.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. More details will be provided as they become available.

Long Beach at Risk of Losing 2028 Olympic Sailing

Long Beach at Risk of Losing 2028 Olympic Sailing Events to San Pedro

Long Beach may lose its role as the host of Olympic sailing in 2028 after the Los Angeles City Council voted 14-0 to approve venue changes requested by LA28. One amendment, proposed by Councilmember Tim McOsker, mandates shifting sailing events from Long Beach’s Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier to San Pedro’s Port of Los Angeles.

McOsker passionately argued that San Pedro offers better wind conditions, improved safety, and greater financial benefits. “The winds are better and more consistent in San Pedro,” he said, criticizing the lack of transparency in previous venue decisions. His amendment passed 12-2 before being incorporated into the final vote.

However, the battle isn’t over. Days later, McOsker introduced a new motion after LA28 released a statement that ignored the Council’s decision on sailing. His motion calls for a report on whether LA28 has accepted the change, the city’s authority in venue disputes, and potential legal avenues if disagreements persist.

The motion has been sent to the City Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on the 2028 Olympics, chaired by Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, one of two councilmembers who opposed moving the sailing event.

Adding to the uncertainty, LA28 already has a May 2024 agreement with Long Beach to use Belmont Pier, and the 2021 LA28-City of Los Angeles Games Agreement outlines arbitration for disputes.

With the issue now heading to committee and possibly involving World Sailing and even the International Olympic Committee, the final decision remains unclear. LA28 has yet to comment on the controversy.

Read more about this on our website.

Sea Lion Attacks Teen During Long Beach Junior Lif

Sea Lion Attacks Teen During Long Beach Junior Lifeguard Tryouts, Prompting Postponement

Long Beach officials have postponed tryouts for the city’s Junior Lifeguards program after a sea lion bit a teenage girl participating in a swimming trial.

The incident occurred on March 30 as a group of about a dozen cadets, aged 15 to 17, swam roughly 25 yards from shore in front of the Long Beach Lifeguard Headquarters at 2100 Ocean Boulevard, according to Long Beach Fire Department Capt. Jack Crabtree.

Crabtree described the sea lion as “aggressive,” stating that it swam directly up to the girl and bit her on the arm. Lifeguards stationed along the route quickly intervened, rushing to assist the girl while a nearby lifeguard boat helped two other teenagers back to shore. The sea lion swam away after the attack.

In an interview with KTLA, the girl recounted her fear during the encounter, initially believing she was being attacked by a shark. Fortunately, she sustained only bites and scratches on her arm and hand and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

While sea lion attacks on swimmers are rare, experts say recent reports of erratic and aggressive behavior among the animals may be linked to a toxic algae bloom affecting the Southern California coastline. The bloom produces domoic acid, a neurotoxin that accumulates in small fish consumed by sea lions, leading to disorientation and aggression. The Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro has been overwhelmed with cases of sick and dying sea lions as a result.

There is no clear timeline for when the toxic bloom will subside, but in the meantime, Long Beach officials have postponed all Junior Lifeguard tryouts. When they resume, lifeguards will continue closely monitoring the courses to ensure participants’ safety from sea life, tides, and other ocean hazards.

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