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Port of Los Angeles May Cargo Volume ‘Strong, Consistent’ at 753,000 Container Units

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Port of Los Angeles May Cargo Volume ‘Strong, Consistent’ at 753,000 Container Units

 

LOS ANGELES — The Port of Los Angeles processed 752,893 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in May. While that represents a slight 3% decline over last May, overall cargo volume remains 18% ahead of 2023 after five months.

Seroka said he’ll be traveling to Taiwan and China next week for meetings related to increasing cargo volume and reducing the port’s carbon footprint. The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach will co-sponsor a China-U.S. Green Shipping Corridor in Shanghai, gathering with port leaders and other stakeholders to establish a global trade route to Southern California that uses low- and zero-carbon vessel fuels.

Jared Bernstein, chair of the United States Council of Economic Advisers, joined the port’s media briefing. Bernstein is responsible for providing economic advice to President Biden in order to help formulate domestic and foreign policy.

Bernstein offered his view on the economic outlook, as well as the profound influence of ports and supply chains on the economy.

WATCH BRIEFING HERE

May 2024 loaded imports landed at 390,663 TEUs, a 4.5% decline compared to the previous year. Loaded exports came in at 125,963 TEUs, an increase of 24% compared to last year. May marked the 12th consecutive month of year-over-year export gains.

The port processed 236,268 empty containers, a 12% decrease compared to 2023.

Machista Bar Gets Reprieve from Nuisance Abatement Proceedings

Terelle Jerricks
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Machista Bar Gets Reprieve from Nuisance Abatement Proceedings

By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor

The Machista Bar was reprieved from the nuisance abatement and revocation proceedings on May 21. The administrator put the case on hold for an indefinite amount of time to research the status of the Certificate of Occupancy and the state liquor license. The owners of the troubled watering hole believed they were the targets of unfair enforcement measures, accusing Councilman Tim McOsker, through their attorney Kirt Hopson, of rigging the system against them.

In his brief, Hopson argues that McOsker, driven by a personal agenda, has initiated a campaign to drive the Machista Bar, a minority and woman-owned bar, out of business, citing that McOsker’s daughter purchased a home near the bar and is a resident there.

Hopson noted that five months after opening in April 2022, the Machista Bar was hit by multiple rounds of gunfire, shattering a glass door and a window. Hopson reports that the bar passed its first inspection without any penalties or negative inspection reports in January 2023. In May 2023, the bar was a victim of vandalism and theft after a transient gained access to their roof and stole the copper wiring in their AC unit. In November 2023, Machista Bar was visited by the Los Angeles Police Department Harbor Division’s vice squad for an inspection, an inspection initiated due to complaints about noise, patrons and the aesthetics of the building. The Machista Bar, Hopson wrote, took action to correct the issues addressed and no further action was required. “The year 2023 ended on a good note,” he said.

On Jan. 2, McOsker visited the bar to speak with the bar’s owner, Jessica Vazquez. She wasn’t present. He left a message with the barkeeper. From the clips provided by Hopson, it’s only apparent that he stopped by the bar, and asked to speak with Vazquez. Another clip catching less than 30 seconds of the conversation shows McOsker disagreeing with the barkeep’s characterization of the issues the bar was being asked to correct or mitigate.

Then there was the Jan. 20, 2024 shooting resulting in one death and two wounded, and an underage bar patron on the run as the shooter.

In phone calls to this reporter, Hopson explained that even before the shooting, City Councilman Tim McOsker had been turning the screws on the small business owner by staging DUI checkpoints near the bar and was doing it to benefit his daughter who purchased a house behind the bar. The LAPD’s vice squad visited the establishment at least once last year. Hopson said the bar addressed all issues and argued this was a case of McOsker using his power for the benefit of his daughter.

Hopson admits several calls were made to the police regarding incidents in the vicinity of the bar, but argues that most of those incidents had nothing to do with the bar and its patrons.

The Jan. 20 shooting began as an altercation between two women, 18-year-old Estrella Rojas and Blanca Rosas, which then turned into a shooting, resulting in one person dead and two wounded.

When asked why there was an 18-year patron in the bar in the first place, Hopson’s answer was short: “She had a fake I.D.” He didn’t go into any detail like whether her identification was state-issue identification or if she borrowed the identification from a friend or relative to whom she looked similar.

LAPD’s Harbor Division captain, Shannon White, agreed that the bar complied with the vice squad’s recommendations, but noted that the owners refused further meetings with them after the second visit.

“The most I can say is that, yeah, the violations were nothing that I would go, oh, four alarm fire. They were cooperative in trying to fix things whether it was the graffiti or trash in the alley,” Capt. White explained. “They did have a security officer there that they’d added under that ownership obviously to limited efficacy. So it does beg the question, what else could have been done?”

McOsker’s office, when contacted for this story said the councilman had no comment regarding the Machista Bar’s allegations or hearing being put on hold. While the case is under advisement, pending a decision, the public can submit written comments to Los Angele City Planning Department staff member Iris Wan at Iris.Wan@lacity.org

LIFE AFTER MOTHER: Right to Choose Death with Dignity

Lyn Jensen
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LIFE AFTER MOTHER: Right to Choose Death with Dignity

 

In the acclaimed 2014 film Still Alice, Julianne Moore plays a woman with Alzheimer’s, who schemes to end her life by taking a whole vial of very strong sleeping pills, probably a barbiturate. Except the plan goes awry, she’s no longer capable of understanding what she’s doing, she’s interrupted by the sound of someone entering the house, and the pills spill all over the floor. Instead she will spend the rest of her natural life, her mind slipping away little by little, cared for by her family or in an Alzheimer’s facility.

More recently Amy Bloom described in her memoir In Love how her husband, Brian Ameche, a former football player, began showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s in 2016, and was ready to avoid a fate similar to the fictional film character Alice.

After exploring just about every option — legal or otherwise — and complying with every step in a lengthy and complicated process, the couple traveled to the non-profit DIGNITAS in Switzerland in early 2020, where Ameche was allowed the choice of drinking a fatal dose of sodium pentobarbital, and died quickly and peacefully.

Explaining why the couple went to Switzerland when some states have right-to-die laws concerning physician-assisted death, Bloom writes, “Choosing to die and being able to act independently while terminally ill is a deliberately narrow opening. Many people can’t get through it.”

She explains how having the right to die with dignity is one thing, exercising that right is another. Depending on the state, you may have to meet residency requirements. A doctor must diagnose you’ll be dead within six months. You have to have physician interviews, some days apart, in which you assert you are not psychotic or suicidal or depressed and hope the doctors agree with you. If a drug is prescribed, you have to be physically able to self-administer it, and in some states, pick it up from a pharmacy willing and able to supply it.

In Switzerland two non-profit organizations, DIGNITAS and Pegasos, provide assistance with navigating the process, which even under Swiss law remains complicated. You must apply to become a member of the organization. Once accepted, you must pay the membership fee in cash or by PayPal (no checks, no credit cards) to the Swiss account. Then a request for assistance must be made, paperwork including medical and dental records must be submitted, which may be followed by a “provisional green light.” Then the person, and an accompanying family member or caregiver, must be physically and financially able to travel to Switzerland for examination by a Swiss doctor. If the Swiss doctor approves, then the patient may be able to choose a physician-assisted death.

I understand physician-assisted death is a complicated issue, but I support making an option available for the terminally ill that may choose death with dignity.

Soulful Sounds and Summer BBQ: Juneteenth Comes Alive in Carson

Terelle Jerricks
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Soulful Sounds and Summer BBQ: Juneteenth Comes Alive in Carson

By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor

This year, the City of Carson is celebrating Juneteenth a day before Father’s Day, turning the entire weekend into the first barbecue holiday of summer.

Since it became a federal holiday, Juneteenth is increasingly becoming known as Freedom Day, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved Africans throughout the Americas.

Of course, in the Black experience over the past 35 years, no cookout was a cookout without Hangin’ on a String, played by the band Loose Ends, blaring out the radio. The City of Carson and the Carson Citizens Cultural Arts Foundation went a step further and got Loose Ends’ original lead singer, Jane Eugene, to perform some of those greatest hits including Hangin’ on a String.Jane Eugene02

Greg Rose, a vocalist of the soul and R&B persuasion, is going to belt out some of the greatest standards of the past 40 years.

Guitarist Jubu Smith is going to be there. You’d know his guitar solo from the Tony! Toni! Toné! single, Just Me and You in the film Boyz in the Hood. Maybe if the crowd is nice, he’ll perform that cut and take you all back to the ’90s. If not that one, he’ll perform his guitar solos from Tony! Toni! Toné!’s Anniversary.

Gee Mack & Asia Raye is a fun cover band that will hit all the right notes from soul to neo-soul. Asia Raye’s voice, stage presence and showmanship can out-shine any who come before or after her on stage. You should expect to hear cuts from Rose Royce to Erica Badu, and from Marvin Gaye to Jill Scott.

Not all the music is going to be secular. Gospel artist Brent Jones is going to be performing singles from his self-titled album (2023), including Nothing Else Matters. Music lovers won’t be skipping any beats. If you have legs and feet you will be dancing regardless.

Also showing up to perform are the Buckjump Brass Band, Demdebra West African Drum and Dance Ensemble, and DJ Alcatraz.

The event will feature craft vendors, food, a Teen Fun Zone and entertainment for all ages.

Juneteenth Celebration
Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 15
Cost: Free
Venue: Mills Park, 1340 E. Dimondale Drive, Carson

Juneteenth San Pedro
The San Pedro Committee Network’s annual Juneteenth celebration at Peck Park is happening again. This celebration of freedom stands as a powerful testament to the resilience, perseverance, and undying spirit of the African American community. Join in for a day of celebration with games, food, entertainment, prices, and the annual scholarship awards.
Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 15
Cost: Free
Venue: Peck Park, 560 N. Western Ave., San Pedro

Juneteenth at King Park
In Long Beach, California, Juneteenth holds a special significance. As a diverse and vibrant community, Long Beach has its own unique history intertwined with the struggle for civil rights and freedom. From the early days of the Civil Rights Movement to the present, Long Beach has been a beacon of hope and progress for marginalized communities.

This day will be filled with joyous festivities, cultural performances, music, food, and opportunities to reflect on the journey toward freedom and equality. Everyone is invited to come together in unity and solidarity to honor our shared history and to continue the fight for justice and equality for all. Let’s celebrate freedom, diversity, and community at this special event in Long Beach.

Time: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.. June 22nd, 2024
Cost: Free
Venue: MLK Park in Long Beach

Rep. Barragán Leads Letter to HUD and Urges Ratification of U.S.-Croatia Double Taxation Treaty

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Rep. Barragán Leads Letter to HUD and Urges Ratification of U.S.-Croatia Double Taxation Treaty

 

Rep. Barragán Leads Letter to HUD to Request Stronger Policies to Reduce Housing Barriers

Washington, D.C. — Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) June 10 led more than 30 members of Congress in a letter to the Department of Housing and Urban Development that recommends strong policies to promote housing opportunities for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. This letter comments on HUD’s notice of proposed rule making, which was announced last April and would amend regulations for certain HUD programs to reduce barriers to affordable housing for individuals with a criminal record.

“In the United States, nearly 80 million Americans have a conviction or arrest record,” the Congressmembers wrote. “Without access to safe and stable housing, individuals returning from incarceration are more likely to fall into homelessness and return to prison or jail. These obstacles complicate successful reentry and create a cycle between incarceration, homelessness, and reincarceration…HUD must consider the entire tenancy cycle and enact policies that help secure and maintain housing for these individuals, who are working towards building a new life but are often targeted due to their past.”

Details: View the letter here.

Rep. Barragán and Congressional Croatian Caucus Urges Ratification of U.S.-Croatia Double Taxation Treaty

Washington, D.C. — This week, Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), co-chair of the Congressional Croatian Caucus, with fellow co-chair Dave Joyce (OH-14) and vice chairs Dan Kildee (MI-08) and Claudia Tenney (NY-24) sent a letter to the Senate to engage with the Department of Treasury to address any issues holding up the U.S.- Croatia treaty for the avoidance of double taxation and to ultimately ratify the treaty. The treaty was signed by the United States and the Republic of Croatia in December of 2022.

“The Republic of Croatia is a critical ally to the United States, and the Senate must work with Treasury to resolve issues and move towards treaty ratification. said Congresswoman Barragan. “This treaty builds on 30 years of diplomatic partnership and will further deepen cooperation between our nations and will serve the interest of American and Croatian taxpayers. These opportunities to strengthen social, economic, and cultural partnerships with Croatia are vital to the United States and my district, which is home to one of the largest and liveliest Croatian communities in the United States.”

Nigerian Monarch Visits Los Angeles Harbor to Foster Trade Relations

Terelle Jerricks
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Nigerian Monarch Visits Los Angeles Harbor to Foster Trade Relations

By Terelle Jerricks, Managing Editor

On June 7, a royal delegation from the Delta region of Nigeria visited the Port of Los Angeles followed by a boat tour of the harbor the next day.

The delegation, led by the king of the Warri kingdom in the Delta state of Nigeria, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and the top members of the African Diaspora Foundation and Aivlys LLC met with Port of Los Angeles executive director Gene Seroka. The port director explained that the topics of discussion were trade relationships and friendship.

“As trade is shifting, the world looks very different from a ports perspective and the supply chain, and it’s been the has those who have helped bring us together,” Seroka said. “We talked about ideas and concepts in business and protocols in investment. But again, it’s the friendship and the relationship that bonds.”

Joe Gatlin, the CEO of Gatlin Enterprises and chair of the US section of the African Diaspora Foundation, is a key figure in linking the port director and the Nigerian royal delegation. During the tour of the harbor, Gatlin spoke broadly about the conversations taking place regarding future trading relationships with the nation of Nigeria.

“We’re here for one reason only … to show off our community, but the King came for trade,” Gatlin said.”

Gatlin noted that trade will make a difference not only on the African continent but here in the Los Angeles harbor.

“The imports from the continent will mean more job opportunities for our community. It’ll bring millions to our port,” Gatlin said. “One of the reasons I’m so excited about this, [is that] this will help our entire community. So I’m also asking all of you to get the word out … to get ready for this input. It will happen soon. We’re on the clock. Believe me, this will happen very soon and it will impact all our communities.”

In attendance at the boat tour with Olu Atuwatse III, were retired congresswoman Diane Watson, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchise owner Ed Rice, and a cadre of other leaders in business, politics and nonprofit fields.

Gatlin let loose a tidbit of information that went unmentioned at the press conference later in the day. He had noted that at one time, Nigeria was the number one producer of farmed fish and fed nearly half of the continent.

“It was huge,” Gatlin said. “It went down over the years. Now, they’re going to revive it.”

Gatlin connected that story to San Pedro’s place in history as a fishing town.

“As we all know San Pedro is a fishing town. But all of Southern California lost a lot of that when Starkist and Chicken of the Sea and all those left. But it’s going to come back…For that fishing industry now coming back to San Pedro.”

Gatlin conveyed visions of port-related unions expanding their members because of the work that would be generated due to the new trade links with Nigeria.

Gatlin’s excitement was palpable.

“Every Union on the waterfront will increase its membership. Sometimes even double their membership. So I want to make sure our people are ready for that. They’re trained for that. They go to school to become welders, whatever is needed. This is going to have a huge impact on our community.”

Since his elevation nearly three years ago, the 40-year-old monarch has been the subject of a great deal of excitement due to his pedigree, education, his stances on ensuring women’s access to education, and the divestment of oil infrastructure responsibly. Atuwatse is also a serial entrepreneur. He founded Noble Nigeria and Coral Curator and is the Chairman of Ocean Marine Security and a director at the Gulf of Guinea and Vessellink Nig.

The monarch obtained a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Political Science from Case Western Reserve University, in Cleveland, Ohio, USA in 2006 and a Master of Science degree in Management from the same university in 2007.

In 2008, Atuwatse returned to Nigeria for the mandatory National Youth Service Corps and served in the public affairs department of National Petroleum Investment Management Services or NAPIMS. After NYSC, he worked as an officer at the Shell Nigeria Closed Pension Fund Administrator or SNCFPA and Sahara Energy between 2010 and 2012.

This past January, Shell Oil controversially announced it was selling its Nigerian onshore subsidiary, the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited or SPDC to Renaissance, a consortium of five companies comprising four exploration and production companies based in Nigeria and an international energy group for $2.4 billion. Critics have blasted the sale for allowing the oil company to shirk its responsibility for cleaning up the petroleum-contaminated rivers and streams and large areas of polluted land that have impacted the lives and livelihoods of the people living in the Niger Delta region.

Atuwatse made no mention of potential oil exports or the ongoing criticism of the sale during the press conference at Terranea Resort on June 8. In an interview with Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation posted to YouTube a few days before he visited the port, his majesty articulated a hope that Shell would do right by the people of the Delta region and address the damage caused by its oil infrastructure.

Shell has blamed oil spills on sabotage, including theft of oil and interference with pipelines. However, Amnesty International and CEHRD have reported that Shell has made false statements about the extent of oil spills caused by illegal activity.

At the boat tour around the Los Angeles harbor and the press conference later in the day, the only thing discussed openly was friendship between the Port of Los Angeles and Nigeria and the possibilities of trade in strengthening that relationship.

Port director Seroka, tempered the excitement without extinguishing it by noting that the friendship that was started with this visit was only the beginning.

County Leaders Launch Historic LGBTQ+ Commission, Celebrating a Milestone Year for Equality

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County Leaders Launch Historic LGBTQ+ Commission, Celebrating a Milestone Year for Equality

 

LOS ANGELES — The Board of Supervisors made history June 11 by officially gaveling into session the county’s first-ever LGBTQ+ Commission.

The board introduced the county’s new LGBTQ+ Commission executive director, Sunitha Menon, and presented fellow LGBTQ+ Commission members with a ceremonial gavel before their inaugural meeting.

This journey began in June 2023 when Supervisor Solis and Supervisor Hahn co-authored a motion to create the LGBTQ+ Commission, which will make recommendations on policies that impact LGBTQ+ communities.

“There are too many states and local governments across the country who are moving backwards when it comes to LGBTQ rights,” said Supervisor Hahn. “I am proud that, with this commission at the helm, LA County is on the right side of history and lifting up LGBTQ voices when we need to hear them most.”

Menon’s selection is the culmination of a year-long effort led by Supervisor Solis and Supervisor Hahn, who co-authored a resolution with board chair Horvath to fly the Progress Pride Flag at all county facilities in time for Pride Month.

“It is an honor to be the first Executive Director of the LGBTQ+ Commission, and I am grateful to Supervisor Solis and Supervisor Hahn for authoring the original motion to form this Commission,” Menon said. “The unanimous support from the Board of Supervisors reflects a shared reality that all LGBTQ+ people in Los Angeles County need dedicated support to ensure our safety and survival. I look forward to working alongside the Commissioners to ensure we are uplifting the needs of the over 500,000 members of our community, particularly for our black and brown trans community members, and those who live in areas with less access to life-saving resources and support.”

Menon previously served as managing director of operations at Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, where she led strategic planning and developed and executed a comprehensive culture change plan focused on expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization.

The Commission’s 15 members will advise the Board of Supervisors to ensure its policies and practices are supportive of the LGBTQ+ community.

The LGBTQ+ Commission members are:

Nic Arnzen. Nic has been an organizer and equal rights advocate for decades having supported marches, vigils, and protests locally and globally. He lives in Altadena where he holds office as a town councilmember and is the founder and lead organizer of the yearly Altadena Pride Celebration.

Ed Reece. Ed is an accomplished entrepreneur and elected official, serving as mayor, councilmember, chair, and vice president of various local and regional public agencies and associations. He is recognized as a strategic thinker, executive coach and advisor, and visionary leader in politics, public policy, and business.

Ellie Perez. Ellie is an experienced management professional and LGBTQ+ advocate with a history of working in these fields. She is serving as the interim executive director of The LGBTQ Center Long Beach.

Eric Schockman, PhD. Eric is emeritus professor of politics and international relations specializing in public policy leadership as a practitioner/scholar. He was an early pioneer in LGBTQ+ legislation, served on numerous local, state, and international boards and commissions addressing human rights, including the City of Angels AIDS Hospice.

Terra Russell-Slavin, Esq. Terra is the chief impact officer at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, where they work to advance LGBTQ rights and have executive oversight of all human services, including youth services, senior services, policy and advocacy, and legal services. She is actively engaged in expanding the center’s women’s health services and oversees the center’s National LGBTQ Intimate Partner Violence Institute.

Steve Fisher. Steve is completing his term as central committee member for the Los Angeles Democratic Party and State Democratic Party representing AD 52 for four years. He previously served on the Board of Governors of the Human Rights Campaign and Head of HRC’s Los Angeles Federal Club. He is a literary agent and partner with Independent Artist Group.

Sydney Rogers. Sydney has been in the entertainment and activist field for over 25 years. She identifies as a Black trans femme, bringing more visibility and healing to the TGI (Trans, Gender Diverse, Intersex) community through artivism. She holds positions as program manager of the Trans Economic Empowerment Project, equity manager of Community Programs at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, co-director of the TG/Enby Project, and founder of Infinite Souls Consultations and Big Mama Storytime.

Talha Khan-Valbuena. Talha has served as deputy district attorney for the County of Los Angeles since 2016 and is the co-president of the South Asian Bar Association public interest foundation and a member of the LGBT Bar Association.

Alejandro Soria. Alejandro is the senior director of outpatient mental health, The Village Family Services and has a private practice in the City of San Fernando, Hope, Therapy & Wellness.

Luis Vasquez. Luis is a native Angeleno and co-founder of Rainbow labs, which is dedicated to educating peers on queer issues and creating a safe space.

Hector Trinidad Plascencia. Hector is the founder and executive director of Plascencia Consulting and serves as a consultant with the San Gabriel Valley LGBTQ+ Center.

Jerry P. Abraham, M.D. Jeffrey is a fellowship-trained expert, educator, and clinician with a special focus on ending health disparities, advancing health equity, and achieving racial and medical justice.

Eddie Martinez. Eddie is the executive director of Latino Equality Alliance and has over 25 years of non-profit management, civic engagement, and policy-making experience.

 

The Power of Visibility: Boldness in LGBTQ+ Art to Open in Long Beach

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The Power of Visibility: Boldness in LGBTQ+ Art to Open in Long Beach
LGBTQ+ Art Exhibition Opens June 22

The Long Beach Creative Group invites the community to experience The Power of Visibility: Boldness in LGBTQ+ Art, an art exhibition which opens with two receptions on June 22, and Sunday, June 23, and runs through July 20.

Thirty-nine artists who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community submitted work. The three jurors for the exhibition, Lucas Gordon, Brian Trimble and Jenson Titus selected 58 pieces by 29 artists for the exhibition, representing a wide variety of media and subject matter.

Self Portrait Samantha Amato
“Self Portrait” by Samantha Amato.
Photo courtesy of LBCG.

Exhibit coordinator Travis Stock-Tucker said, “Visibility is the first step towards equality. Art has the power to make the unseen seen, and the unheard heard. Through the lens of art, we can shatter stereotypes, challenge prejudices, and pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding world.”

Marka Burns, President and founder of the Long Beach Creative Group, said, “This exhibit is a continuation of our commitment to connect with, and showcase, the diversity of our city’s complex creative community, and to amplify voices that might not find opportunities elsewhere.”

Portrait Of The Artist As Dorian Gray Robin Venter
“Portrait of the Artist as Dorian Gray” by Robin Venter.
Photo courtesy of LBCG.

In addition to the exhibition, several special events are also scheduled. At 6pm June 28, the LBCG will be hosting The History of Stonewall, which will focus on the history and legacy of gay activism, including the 1969 uprising in response to brutal police actions against people at The Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village. LBCG will host its monthly movie night at 8 p.m., July 12 featuring Paris Is Burning. This iconic documentary offers an intimate look at the vibrant drag ball culture of New York City in the late 1980s. On July 20, LBCG will close the exhibition with Strut Your Stuff, a costumed ball drawing inspiration from the exuberance of the 1990 cinematic celebration of drag, Paris is Burning.

Kobe Beef AKA Pearl Harper Jason Miller
‘Kobe Beef AKA Pearl Harper’ by Jason Miller.
Photo courtesy of LBCG.

The LBCG is an established consortium of experienced artists, educators, and art enthusiasts engaged in creating exhibit space and opportunities for local artists through curated exhibits and events. Since 2019, the Rod Briggs Gallery has enabled the group to consistently and professionally present the depth and diversity of artistic expression in Long Beach and the surrounding communities.

The Rod Briggs Gallery is open to the public Fridays through Sundays, from 1 pm to 4 pm. No appointment is required.

Time: 1 to 4 p.m., June 22 and 23

Cost: Free

Details: LongBeachCreativeGroup.com

Venue: Rod Briggs Gallery, 2221 E Broadway Long Beach

TRAA’s Monthly Zoom Meeting Will Happen June 12, Featuring Janet Gunter

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TRAA’s Monthly Zoom Meeting Will Happen June 12, Featuring Janet Gunter

 

The meeting will include information about current and new projects. San Pedro business owner and local activist Janet Gunter will be the guest.

Here is her story.

I am an antique business owner in the Old Downtown District in San Pedro from the late 1980’s, and became part of the Revitalization Board to improve the depressed area. After the Port of LA denied a donation to the Board, I started looking into how the Port of LA was impacting our area. Their growth had been rampant over the previous several years and it had negatively impacted the San Pedro and Wilmington communities with its massive industrial footprint. I was mostly familiar with the visual and aesthetic losses at the time.

In early 2000 Alfred Vvimmer, an architect and engineer from Austria who was looking at the port area with a development project in mind, came into my shop with a document, an Environmental Impact Report for the China Shipping terminal expansion. I had no idea what an EIR was. In reading along with this man, I began to understand the serious deficiencies of this report and the enormous negative impacts that the local population would suffer with this major terminal expansion. All ignored losses without consideration or mitigation by the port. While the injustices of the previous port developments were not something we could appeal due to our delay ….. this project was currently in the review and public comment process. It was then that the issue of toxic air emissions caught my attention. There was a flagrant omission of both the increased air pollution and the aesthetic consequences to be realized by the local public from this expansion.

I soon joined with two homeowner organizations in San Pedro to strengthen efforts to take legal action.

We expanded our environmental activism to include the issue of the 25+ million gallon, Rancho / Plains All American Pipeline, butane and propane storage facility which has a strong connection to the Torrance Refinery Action Alliance.

Zoom Meeting

Time: 7 p.m., June 12

Details: RSVP with an email request for a Zoom link to TRAA President Steven Goldsmith at info@TRAA.website. Include your phone number to receive updates before the meeting. Look for the Zoom link and agenda in the morning, Wednesday, June 12.

Renee Moilanen Named Environmental Planning Leader at Board of Harbor Commissioners

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Renee Moilanen Named Environmental Planning Leader at Board of Harbor Commissioners

 

The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners June 10 approved the appointment of Renee Moilanen to lead the Port of Long Beach’s forward-looking sustainability programs as director of Environmental Planning.

Environmental Planning is the port division most directly responsible for the port’s signature environmental policies and programs including the green port policy and the San Pedro bay ports clean air action plan or CAAP. Under the 2005 green port policy, the division coordinates programs to improve air, water and soil quality, preserve wildlife habitat and integrate sustainability into port practices.

Moilanen starts July 15.

Most recently, Moilanen was director of ports at Build Momentum, which specializes in developing campaigns for organizations working on transformative water, energy, transportation and manufacturing technologies. She was previously a consultant for Starcrest Consulting Group, which helps conduct the port’s annual emissions inventory.

The appointment brings Moilanen back to the Port of Long Beach, where she played a key role in advancing clean air programs as manager of air quality practices from 2014-19. She also served as an environmental specialist, environmental specialist associate and communications administrative analyst during a port career that began in 2006.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Florida and a master’s of public policy in health policy from the University of California, Los Angeles.

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