Join me at the next District 3 Townhall on May 28, at the Recreation Park Community Center. Representatives from the City Manager's Office will share updates on the 2028 Olympics, and the Environmental Services Bureau will provide information about the new organic waste bins. Before the meeting begins, there will be time to connect with various City departments and learn more about the services they provide.

Major activities for April, May and beyond focus on utility construction along Colorado Street. The contractor began deep excavations using a slide-and-rail system and began the sewer siphon installation. Crews will be assembling slide-and-rail boxes to perform this complex excavation work (20 plus ft below current depths). The sewer siphon will be constructed several feet below the deepest portions of the RCB bridge to avoid conflicts with the City’s infrastructure and will gradually get shallower as it moves away from the bridge. Upon the creation of a deep trench, the contractor will lower equipment that will help perform horizontal augering to install the new lines. The City’s contractor is implementing a sewer siphon design approved by the Los Angeles County Sanitation District to ensure the construction of an effective siphon system that is effective and robust. These activities will continue into the summer, prior to bridge construction completion.

Other activities that have already taken place on site includes installation of various storm drain lines across the work areas, continuing installation of irrigation lines at Marina Vista Park, installation of the infield lines for the new ballfield, and rough grading. Remaining activities for Marina Vista Park include amending soils to help reduce the concentration of salt in the final surfaces. In combination with an upgraded and more modern irrigation system, this salt leeching process will help the future grass establish and grow successfully,

Concurrently, work in and around the open channel footprint continues. While the east trail has been established, grading and paving have begun to establish the west trail including establishing retaining walls and look out points for the future open channel. The channel has been mostly dewatered to allow for final grading to take place. Finally, Eliot street has been repaved with asphalt with the final one-inch lift to be done concurrently with Colorado Street paving.

Requested by Councilmember Duggan, the project team explored reopening Eliot Street early, but determined it is not feasible due to sewer installation constraints. The clay sewer siphon must be installed from the deepest point in one direction, and its joints require stable, continuous construction. Industry standards from LACSD and the National Clay Pipe Institute prohibit the type of seams that would be needed to reopen the Colorado and Eliot Street intersection early.

Eliot Street and Colorado Street are still anticipated to reopen in late 2025 or early 2026.

Two juveniles, ages 12 and 13, have been arrested in connection with a string of six commercial burglaries in Long Beach, including the break-in at Sweet Jill’s. The incidents, which occurred between April 6 and April 26, 2025, involved shattered glass storefronts, stolen merchandise, and, in some cases, the use of a stolen vehicle. Both suspects were arrested following search warrants and have been booked on charges including commercial burglary and possession of a stolen vehicle. Due to their age, they were released after booking and the case will be presented to the LA County District Attorney's Office.

I was glad to join the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce's board retreat to speak on my perspective of the Long Beach Business Climate and answer their questions. Thank you to the Chamber for the opportunity to spend time listening and talking with members.

This week I attended the Miller Children’s & Women’s 5th Annual Youth Mental Health Forum, where the focus on resilience and optimism truly resonated. Hearing Aidan Park speak about his book, The Art of Being Yay, was both uplifting and a powerful reminder of how important hope is for our youth. It was inspiring to see the community so committed to supporting mental wellness in young people. Thank you, MemorialCare, for offering such an inspirational forum.

I am happy to share that we will be accepting resumes and cover letters starting May 12 for this year's Summer Internship available to incoming juniors and seniors.

Spots are limited, so get your submissions in as soon as possible!

Last weekend, I attended the 2025 Harvey Milk Promenade Park Equality Wall ceremony. This a powerful tribute to the courage and leadership that continues to shape Long Beach with pride.

The Long Beach Rowing Association’s Learn to Row program is a great way to try a new sport right here in Alamitos Bay. Classes fill up quickly, so sign up now!

Also offered are historic tours of the Pete Archer Rowing Center which will be at the center of the LA28 rowing venue. I hope that you can make it down to the boathouse on June 7!

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Vic Nol, Government Relations at LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games, to discuss the exciting opportunities ahead with LA28.

A little know fact: The Conservation Corp building, which is also home to the District 3 Field Office, was the boathouse before Pete Archer Rowing Center on Marine Stadium and used for the 1932 Olympics! More history to come of the incredible legacy of Olympic Rowing in 1932 as we look toward the future of Olympic Rowing and sports in Long Beach for LA28.

I had the honor of attending the 20th Annual Hometown Heroes Luncheon at the historic Queen Mary. Community leaders came together to celebrate local heroes who went above and beyond in service, courage, and compassion. It was a powerful reminder of the incredible people who contribute to our Long Beach and South Bay communities.

I was glad to celebrate our local heros including Long Beach resident Debbie Truax, Long Beach Lifeguard Battalion Chief Scott Dixon, and Long Beach firefighter and paramedic Max Whitt.

Beach Maintenance has added kick steps to the fitness equipment near Rosie’s Dog Beach, making it more accessible and user-friendly for all beachgoers.

I had the pleasure of joining Sister Cities of Long Beach this week, alongside Mayor Rex Richardson, to celebrate the High School Digital Pen Pal Program and the Youth Artists and Author Showcase (YAAS) initiative.

It was a powerful reminder of how youth-led cultural exchange builds lasting bridges across communities and continents. I’m incredibly proud of our Long Beach students for leading with empathy, curiosity, and a truly global mindset.

Last week, I had the pleasure of joining Commander Benson, East Division officers, EOC Dispatch staff, and Councilmember Megan Kerr for Coffee with a Cop. These events create open dialogue and an opportunity to connect with officers, ask questions, and strengthen the partnership between our community and the Long Beach Police Department.

Last week, I visited the Long Beach Lawn Bowling Club in District 3 to learn more about the club and give lawn bowling a try. Brent Dennis, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Marine, and my husband Matt, joined me for a fun lesson from the club's President and Coach, Sean!

If you're interested in trying out a new social and fun sport, call them up and schedule a visit! The club is located in Recreation Park off Federation Drive. Thank you, Sean, for a great tour and lesson!

Congratulations to the Belmont Shore Rugby Under-18 Boys Team for bringing home the USA Rugby National Title! These outstanding young athletes proudly represented both their club and the City of Long Beach with exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and determination.

Algalita is offering a free six-week summer program for Long Beach youth entering grades 6 through 12. Through hands-on activities and guided learning, students will develop leadership skills, explore ocean science, and build a deeper connection to their local community.

Spots are limited, so early application is encouraged.

Join Partners of Parks on July 30 as they kick off their 40th year of serving Long Beach parks with the Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament at El Dorado Park Golf Course. Secure your spot before registration fills up!

If you are looking to add a furry friend to your family, now is a great time. Long Beach Animal Care Services is offering a special $25 adoption fee for all large dogs weighing 30 pounds or more. Stop by and meet your new best friend!

Spring is a natural time for fresh starts, and giving your home a good clean can help freshen up both your space and your mindset. A cleaner home is not just nicer to look at, it can also support your physical and mental well-being. Spring cleaning has been linked to reduced stress, better focus, and even improved sleep.

Start with small tasks like wiping down dusty surfaces, vacuuming, or clearing out cluttered corners. These actions can help reduce indoor allergens and make your space feel calmer and more organized. Letting go of things you no longer use, whether clothes, papers, or kitchen items, can bring a sense of accomplishment and clarity.

Opening windows on breezy, low-pollen days allows fresh air to circulate, which may help improve indoor air quality. And making your bed, tidying up, or simply rearranging a space can boost your mood and energy. Cleaning does not have to be perfect or overwhelming, even a few simple changes can help you feel more relaxed and in control.

Spring cleaning is a great way to reset and start fresh with a lighter, healthier home.