Welcome to another issue of Inside District 9. This week, we bear an unfortunate and distressing update for our community.

As you may have already learned, on Wednesday evening, Senator Jenny Oropeza passed away at Long Beach Memorial Hospital at approximately 9PM. On behalf of the communities of the Ninth District, we extend our deepest and sincerest condolences to the families, friend and loved ones of Senator Oropeza.

Since 1975, Senator Oropeza led a life of public service here in Long Beach, from serving as Student Body President at Long Beach State and progressing through the ranks of government to the height of representing Long Beach to the State Senate. Her memorial service will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park on Monday, October 25 at 1PM - 4471 Lincoln Ave., Cypress, CA 90630.

Secondly, I would like to report that this past Monday was the very first meeting of the Sidewalks, Trees, Alleys and Roads Task Force. This community-empowered group will help to address problems and blight in our public rights of way by identifying common issues such as pot holes, street lighting, small curb repairs (3-5ft), bent and/or degraded traffic signs, graffiti, and abandoned cars. If you would like to personally make a request for a repair, please call my office at 562-570-6137. If you're interested in joining the STAR team, just call 562-570-3319.

October 28 is the North Long Beach Project Area Committee at the North Division Police Substation located at 4891 Atlantic Ave. I invite everyone in the 9th District to come to this very important meeting and hear about the exciting developments in North Long Beach.

Finally, I would like to encourage all Ninth District residents to do your part to help spread the word about all of the exciting community updates by signing up your friends, families and neighbors to receive the "Inside District 9" weekly newsletter. You can do this by forwarding this newsletter directly to a friend or calling (562)570-6137.