#PopsicleWithACop + Southern Food + Illegal Fireworks Fine Hikes?

It’s another beautiful day in Long Beach, the Aquatic Capital of America!

Welcome to the Long Beach Patch Daily Newsletter, the easiest and most enjoyable way to know what’s happening down the street and around the corner.

The police department continues its Uptown neighborhood walk initiative by handing out popsicles at Lindbergh MS. The eateries that went out of business during COVID-19 are being replaced by restaurants serving Southern food, and it’s a hit with residents! Also, the City Council plans to boost illegal fireworks fines this Independence Day by holding property owners responsible.

First Things First: Today’s Weather, Beach Hazard Statement, and Allergy Outlook

Sunny Southern California doesn’t disappoint with June temperatures reaching 69° for the high and 60° for the low. Odds are good it’ll be partly cloudy, in keeping with our typical June Gloom.

Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves are causing beach hazards for south-facing beaches until 2 p.m.

Even though it’s grass pollen season, along with olives and mulberries, levels of pollen in the air are low to medium.

The Five News Headlines That Everyone’s Talking About

1. The LB PD continues its Uptown neighborhood walks. Officers brought popsicles to Lindbergh Middle School and spent some time on campus. (@LBPD)
2. Southern food is a growing trend in LB. With many restaurants going out of business last year, those serving Cajun, Creole, and soul food are moving in and thriving. (Eater L.A.)
3. Setting off illegal fireworks in the City could get more expensive this July. In addition to the $1,000 citation, the Council wants to add costs for fireworks disposal ($250) and hold property owners liable for anyone violating the law at their address. (LB Post)
4. The LB Airport woos LAX travelers. Showcasing terminal improvements such as new ticketing and checked baggage inspections buildings, Southwest is actively courting business travelers. (LB Business Journal)
5. The community center at Houghton Park was renamed. It is now the “Doris Topsy-Elvord Community Center.” Similarly, the South Street Parkway is now “The Pressburg Parkway.” (LB Press Telegram)

What’s Happening Today in Long Beach?

• Happy Hour Volleyball hosts its Kick-Off 2021; nets are up south of the pier. (4 p.m.)
• The zen dive co hosts Big Blue Dive Boat Day at Berth 55 in the Long Beach Harbor. (7 a.m.)
• Downtown LB Farmer’s Market at 4th and North Promenade. (10 a.m.)
• Hugh von Kleist Duo featuring Hideaki Tokunaga on (guitar) plays at Haewah Dal, 5020 2nd Street. (6 p.m.)
• There’s a weekly NA meeting at the Redgate Memorial Recovery Center at 1775 Chestnut Avenue. (7:30 p.m.)
• Plan ahead! The Belmont Heights United Methodist Church hosts a FREE shred and e-waste recycling event tomorrow. 317 Termino Avenue. (Saturday, 9 a.m.)

Today’s Long Beach Patch Notebook

It may not fit into news or events, but you sure want to know about it!

• Beacon for Him Ministries is looking for gift card donations to Costco, Smart & Final, and PetSmart (Take Action)
• The YMCA of Greater Long Beach is hiring! (Apply)

One More Thing!

A correction! Remember when we talked about the International City Theatre's production of "The Last Five Years?" Lucy Pollak was kind enough to reach out and correct some information. This production is virtual and is streaming on demand every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through June 20.

That’s it! You’re now in the know and ready to weigh in at the water cooler. Better yet, head out and experience Long Beach! I’ll bring you another serving of tasty news and events morsels tomorrow.

-Sylvia

Sylvia Cochran is a freelance writer who has lived more than 20 years in Long Beach and its various neighborhoods. I love books, dogs, volunteering, and embrace social justice. If you have a juicy tidbit of what’s happening locally, don’t keep it to yourself; reach out by emailing me at longbeach-ca@patch.com!