The 3rd District news & updates
November | 2021
Upcoming Events
City of Long Beach Council Meetings
Tuesdays @ 5:00PM

Holiday Evergreens Online Sales - Support Local Boy Scout Troop 105
November 4th, 2021

Bixby Park Monthly Cleanup
November 6th, 2021

Belmont Heights "Last Saturday of the Month" Drive-Thru
November 27th, 2021

Edison Scholars
October 1st - December 13th, 2021

Belmont Shore Winter Village
December 4th, 2021

Naples Island 75th Annual Boat Parade
December 18th, 2021

*More information for all events can be found under "3rd District and City Community Events". Check it out!
City Phone Numbers
Helpful and important City phone numbers are included at the bottom of the newsletter. This contact information can be used for a variety of city services such as:
  • Graffiti
  • Pot Holes
  • Noise abatement
  • Broken Curbs
  • And much, much more!
Councilwoman Suzie Price
Greetings!
Welcome to November! This is the season of giving thanks and making sure we take the time to acknowledge the things and people that help make our community great. I have so much gratitude for our community at this moment in my life. Here are a couple of recent events that have made me very mindful of the goodness of the majority of people we have in this community:
Redistricting process:

As I am hope you are all aware, the city is going through a redistricting process. The process is brand new to Long Beach since it now involves a process led exclusively by an independent redistricting commission. The commissioners are working hard to listen to public testimony and revise the council districts based on the most recent census data. The process is long and it is not pretty. In fact, the process has been very tense and unpredictable, but that was to be expected. On October 13th when the 10 proposed maps were released by the commission’s consultant, the community of Alamitos Heights was completely excluded from the maps.
All of the maps show the community of Alamitos Heights being separated from Belmont Heights. The Alamitos Heights community was also split between lower Alamitos Heights and upper Alamitos Heights. The Colorado Lagoon open channel project was split between two districts. Bay Harbour was in a different district than the park immediately adjacent to their community and the residents of Marina Pacifica would have been in a different district than the shopping/commerce areas immediately outside of their gate, including CVS and 2nd and PCH. It was an odd preliminary division of the district. Many residents asked me why the district boundaries matter and what difference who the council member would make to their daily lives.
What I have tried to explain over the past few weeks is that the council member who represents that district advocates for the residents, whether the issue involves infrastructure, zoning for nearby commerce or other development, public safety or recreation and environmental assets. The council member who represents the residents is usually in the best position to know what the issues are involving where the residents live, shop and recreate. The neighborhoods in a district are, when viewed together, one community of interest with similar social and economic interests that they expect their council representative to advocate for at city hall. This is a very basic explanation of why the district lines matter. For some, this issue is irrelevant in terms of their daily lives. For others, the long term implications of changes are of consequence and something they have chosen to be involved in.
At the October 20th commission meeting, for example, roughly 100 residents from the 3rd district showed up to the meeting and many spoke passionately about being kept with their communities of interest. A similar thing happened on October 27th. The commissioners are listening but they have a difficult job. There are many interested groups who are actively advocating for their own redistricting goals and changes. So, it’s going to be a long and messy process. The next meeting will be on 11/3. The commission will continue to hear from the public as they decide what maps to move forward for possible adoption on 11/10 or 11/18, which is the date that they have set as their deadline for adoption of a new map. For those who are interested in attending a meeting or sending an email to the commission, please see detailed information in our newsletter or past emails. We have sent numerous emails about this process since May but in the past few weeks we have provided very detailed information in terms of where to go, where to park, etc. For more information, please read here.
Conductor Larry Curtis Concert Park:

We unveiled the signs for the new Conductor Larry Curtis Concert Park on Saturday, October 30th. It was a fantastic event with lots of community members, live music and, of course, members of Larry’s family to support the park naming. I was reminded of how wonderful our community is and how united we are on our support of live music at this precious waterside park.
It’s been a very busy couple of months and I expect November will bring much of the same in terms of events, meetings and community engagement. As always, please reach out if you have any concerns or suggestions. My team and I always do our best to serve our community and we look forward to trying to assist you in whatever way we can.

Be safe and enjoy this season of thanks.
Suzie Price
Councilwoman, 3rd District
3rd District Community News
What Are You Thankful For?
Thank you to all of you wonderful residents for creating such a special community here in the Third District. During this month, let us take a moment to reflect on all that we have and are grateful for.
Councilwoman Suzie Price

I am incredibly thankful this year for the hundreds of community members I have talked with in the last month in the context of redistricting and hearing them express words of appreciation for the work of my council staff. I have felt true appreciation for our efforts and a lot of warmth from those we try to serve. I have gratitude for the people who had the courage to share with us (and even publicly) the positives at a time when negativity and divisiveness seem to be what many are attracted to. To those who had the courage to be vulnerable with us during this time and share with us the things they appreciate about my team's work - thank you. You have given our entire team a renewed commitment to service, especially in the uncertain and scary times that we have all been experiencing for almost two years.
Jack Cunningham

After the difficulty and stress of the past two years, it can be hard to think about what you are really thankful for. So much time and energy is spent focusing on the dangerous or frightening issues we all face daily that we can easily let that overshadow the positivity that exists in every moment all around us in so many ways.

For me, it is always my wonderful wife Jen, and my fantastic son Max that I am thankful for. These two are so full of joy and enthusiasm for the moment that I am continually reminded of how fun and optimistic the world is.
Lisa West

There are plenty of reasons to be thankful in life. We live in a crazy world and it's far too easy to only see the negative around us. I love seeing someone do a good deed for someone else, even a small gesture can have a huge impact. I am also extremely grateful for the ability to spend time with my husband and loving family. They are my rock!
Gabriela Yates

I'm thankful for my cat, Nala. She's my first pet and cat that has brought so much extra love into my life!
Mollie Wilson

I'm thankful this year for my health, my friends and family, and for all of the fun events we've been able to do this year that we weren't able to last year!"
Mike Axe

The thing that I am most thankful for is that I am able to surround myself with such amazing people everyday. From my family to my friends and to my teammates, everyone in my life truly supports me and pushes me to be the best version of myself. I am thankful for these wonderful connections I have been able to make.
Nick West
I am really thankful for having the opportunity to attend college, but even more grateful for graduating! It was fun but a lot of work! Now it's time to learn new lessons. I am also grateful for my husky, Luna!
Elaine Scenters-Zapico

I feel incredibly thankful for my health, my family, my partner, and for being able to live in this wonderful city. Long Beach never ceases to amaze me with it's food, beauty, culture, and people! I also feel grateful for being part of this hardworking team while I continue to pursue my masters at CSULB.
Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Streamlines Process for Obtaining Permits and Reservations
The Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) is making it more convenient for the public to obtain permits and reserve public spaces through a new online application system.
 
The public can now use the digital system to reserve park community centers, pools, picnic and bandshell areas, amphitheaters, the archery range, gymnasiums, athletic fields, beaches and waterways, as well as permits to gather for small gatherings in open spaces. 
 
The fillable online form can be submitted online, with an immediate digital confirmation, and all other associated documents that may be required can be uploaded electronically as well. Once an application is approved, users receive an email confirmation and are asked to pay any associated fees, which also can be paid online. The online Application for Facility Use Permit is available at https://forms.longbeach.gov/Forms/Landing
 
Besides the new fillable digital form, paper applications also will still be accepted in person during business hours at the Parks, Recreation and Marine Administration Office at 2760 N. Studebaker Road. Large events will still require separate approval through the City Manager’s Office of Special Events and Filming.
 
For more information, contact the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine at 562.570.3111, email [email protected] or go to https://www.longbeach.gov/park/park-and-facilities/directory/facility-reservations/. 

Mollie Wilson
3rd District Legislative Assistant
Community Meeting Recap
Refresh Coming to Bayshore Library
One of Councilwoman Suzie Price’s top priorities is uplifting the Long Beach Public Libraries and all they have to offer the community. This month, the Council District 3 team was able to host a community meeting to discuss the upcoming refresh to the exterior of the Bayshore Library. This discussion began back in 2019 when we received input supporting the restoration of the library's mid-century architecture, and now we are preparing to move forward with those needed repairs including the windows and trellis. We had a great discussion with members of the Council District 3 community and look forward to future discussions on the Bayshore Library!
Continuing the Temporary Parklets in Belmont Shore

Temporary Parklets have served as a pressing topic throughout the City of Long Beach, especially in the Third District. This month, Councilwoman Suzie Price called a community meeting with City Staff to discuss a separate process for Belmont Shore parklets, brought to the City by Councilwoman Price, as Belmont Shore residents have experienced significant impacts by the parklets. These include issues related to parking, noise, and traffic safety in particular. From Councilwoman Price’s work with City Staff she was able to get a number of changes made to the recent agenda item that was passed by council with the hopes of reducing negative impacts from the temporary parklet program. 
 
During this meeting, numerous City departments presented and answered questions from residents. Residents were able to provide input on their experiences with the parklets in order to inform Councilwoman Price of their impact as she will return to City Council prior to December 31st, 2021, to discuss the temporary parklets. We are grateful for the incredible turnout at the meeting and encourage residents to continue giving our office input on parkets in the Belmont Shore community.
Mollie Wilson
3rd District Legislative Assistant
3rd District and City Community Events
Friends of Bixby Park Monthly Cleanups
November 6th, 2021
Event:   Monthly Cleanup
When:   Saturday, November 6th, 2021
Time:    9:00AM-11:00AM
Where:  Bixby Park 130 Cherry Ave. Long Beach, CA 90802
 
Contact us: [email protected]

FOBP is reestablishing our Park monthly cleanups. Join us at the Bandshell in Bixby Park.  Meet new friends and neighbors while making a difference at our local neighborhood park. A little bit of your time can make a big difference. Post the attached flyer in your building's common area. 
Stick around afterward and enjoy the Farmers Market!
 
Gloves, bags and pickers, will be provided...
all you need to bring is your mask and a smile under it!
Together we will practice litter picking and social distancing!

Thank you for helping make Bixby Park a great place to visit!
See you then.

FOBP
Holiday Evergreens Online Sales Underway!
Support Local Boy Scout Troop 105
Councilwoman Price is always excited to support local groups with their fundraising efforts. This year the Boy Scouts of America Troop 105 will again have their Holiday Greenery Fundraiser selling festive evergreen gifts, including door wreaths and swags, garland and tabletop centerpieces.

To support their fundraiser: CLICK HERE

You may choose either Direct Delivery (via UPS, USPS) or Local Delivery whereby the Troop will deliver your selection to your home. BSA Troop 105 thanks you for your support! Local Delivery items must be ordered by November 4, 2021. Direct Delivery items must be ordered by November 11, 2021. For more information please call or text 562-397-5674.
2021-2022 Edison Scholars
Belmont Heights "Last Saturday of the Month" Drive-Thru
November 27th, 2021
Join Belmont Heights Community Association for a "Last Saturday of the Month" food collection! 

Every month they collect food for a different local food pantry. Additionally they also collect a different household item that goes to different organizations in need. 
 
Their next collection is on Saturday, November 27th from 9 to 11 am in the parking lot of the Belmont Heights United Methodist Church. 

Will Cullen
 Vice President
Belmont Heights Community Association
562-881-4530 
www.mybelmontheights.org/
facebook.com/mybelmontheights/
Belmont Shore Winter Village
December 4th, 2021
Join Belmont Shore on December 4th from 4-8pm for the Winter Village!

All along 2nd street will be local performances, arts, crafts, dance parties, Santa, and so much more.

You won't want to miss out on this family friendly event!
Naples Island 75th Annual Boat Parade
December 18th, 2021
Naples Island 75th Annual Boat Parade's theme this year is "Diamonds on the Bay"!

The event will take place on December 18th, 2021

Whether you participate in the event or you watch the event - everyone will be sure to have a great time!
Business Spotlight
Saltwater Deck
If you haven’t visited Junipero beach lately, you’re probably missing out on seeing the newest waterfront restaurant to open in Council District 3. Many have longed to have a café on the sand and in June 2021, the Long Beach City Council approved contracts for three beach concessions stands. Saltwater Deck as well as Pedal Movement were awarded a three-year contract to operate out of the Junipero location.


Owners Marvin and Amy have focused on more than typical concession stand food. Their tagline, “We don’t make fast food. We make great food as fast as we can” embodies the flare of what you can expect when you visit this casual beachside eatery. With options such as a breakfast sandwich or breakfast burrito, tofu banh mi, turkey chipotle sandwich, Italian sandwich, a variety of wraps, vegan options, and soft serve specialty flavors, you’ve got some choices to make.

As Yelper Leland S. states, “This is a great stop to people watch the basketball players, runners, skaters or just Long Beach itself.” You can find Saltwater Deck just steps away from the bike path, south of Ocean Boulevard and east of Junipero Avenue adjacent to Junipero parking lot.

Hours:
Tuesday – Sunday: 7 AM – 7 PM
Location:
2630 E. Ocean Blvd.
@Saltwaterdeck on Instagram

Photos source: Yelp
UNTUCKit
Another great addition to District 3 is UNTUCKit. The casual men’s shirt retailer fills a void in the men’s clothing market. UNTUCKit can be found in the 2nd & PCH Shopping Center off of Seaport Way and next to Johnny Was and Peloton. Specializing in perfect untucked lengths, fits for all shapes and sizes, contoured hemlines, and reinforced collars, the UNTUCKit difference will be noticed from the start. Come check out this beautiful UNTUCKit store and leave with a comfortable, polished new look for the men in your life.
Hours:
Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM
Sun: 11 AM – 7 PM
Location:
6420 East Pacific Coast Highway
Long Beach (562) 286-6799
Lisa West
3rd District Director of Business Relations,
Programming and Outreach
Artist Spotlight
Kathryn Bishop
Kathryn Bishop’s article in the Grunion Gazette prompted me to reach out to her. I really enjoyed the video embedded to get to know her and if you’d like to see it for yourself you can check it out here.

When I connected with Kathryn, I felt like I already knew her. She was energetic, friendly and excited to be noted as a local artist. She lives in Belmont Shore and her work was on display on 2nd St. so you might be familiar with her sketches. There’s more of her work on Instagram and it’s equally as great. Follow her @kathrynbishopart

Her recent project was a collaboration on Zodiac signs as dancers!
Her work has progressed, and she’s found her artistic style. It’s easy to view this type of art work as simple, minimal, or abstract which it is, but there’s much more than lines or shapes. As Kathryn best describes her work is two-dimension that takes the human shape without any facial features, and can express emotion through movement. Throughout the last year, Kathryn felt the motions of the global pandemic and days when the world felt isolated, small, or the opposite. The art piece in the photo included reflects those shapes, and to me, I see the drawing as a way of surrendering to the flow, while being grounded.

View Kathryn’s Website: She has drawings in this style of animal prints too!


Contact Kathryn Bishop: [email protected]

Gabriela Yates
3rd District Field Deputy
Did You Catch Suzie In October?
Leadership Long Beach event
Halloween at Ubuntu Cafe
Approval of City Commissions at City Hall
City Council Meeting
The ACE Band Community Concert
Bayshore Library Improvement Project
Naming of Conductor
Larry Curtis Concert Park
Haute Dog Parade
3rd District Neighborhood And Association Meetings
Alamitos Heights Improvement Association - AHIA Meetings calendared Quarterly. Please visit their website for more information.

Belmont Heights Community Association
2nd Wednesday of each month
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Belmont Heights United Methodist Church

Belmont Shore Residents Association
2nd Thursday of each month
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Bay Shore Library

Bluff Park Community Meeting
Please check their website for meeting details

Friends of Belmont Shore
First Thursday of each month, 6:00 - 8:00 PM via Zoom
Visit their web site for the zoom link

Friends of Bixby Park
Please check their website
Greenbelt Heights Neighborhood Association
All neighbors welcome!
Regular meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 8pm-9pm
917 Bennett Ave., LB
2nd Sunday neighborhood clean-up at 9am

NW Belmont Park Community Watch
Approximately every 3 months as determined
Third District Field Office
Email Carleton Carlson for meeting confirmation at [email protected] 
 
Peninsula Neighborhood Association
Alamitos Bay Yacht Club

Stoneybrook Villas Association Meeting
3rd Wednesday of each month
7:00 PM - Clubhouse at 500 Bellflower Blvd

Do you have a community or neighborhood meeting that you would like to add to the 3rd District calendar? Email: [email protected]  
Important Phone Numbers For City Services
Abandoned Shopping Cart
(800) 252 – 4613

Broken / Inoperable Traffic Light (562) 570 – 2768

Broken Curb
(562) 570 – 2726

Broken Street Light
(562) 983 – 2000

Broken Parking Meter
(562) 570 – 2741

Damaged Banner
(562) 570 – 5333

Damaged Mailbox
(800) 275 – 8777

Damaged or Missing Tree Grate (562) 570 – 2726

Damaged Sewer
(562) 570 – 2726

Damaged Bus Shelter
(562) 591 – 8753
Damaged Trees
(562) 570 – 2700

Graffiti on Buildings
(562) 570 – 2773

Gas Emergency
(562) 570 – 2140

Leaking Fire Hydrant
(562) 570 – 2390

Noise Abatement
(562) 570 – 4126

Overflowing Sidewalk Trash Can (562) 570 – 2876

Pot Hole
(562) 570 – 3259

Shoes on Powerlines
(562) 570 – 2726

Trash in Street
(562) 570 – 2876 OR (562) 570 – 3867