Belmont Beacon
MONDAY, JUNE 16, 2014 - JUNE 22, 2014
belmontbeacon.com
VOLUME 1, NO. 7
Net Neutrality: How Internet service providers Graduation want to gain more control over our lives and summer By JENNIFER schlueter break safety tips How would you feel if your favorite website loaded very slowly, or not at all, because your Internet service provider (ISP) disagrees with its content or wants you to use their favored website instead? Yes, you could switch providers, but most people in the US do not have a choice between more than one or two providers. And what if the other providers block another website that you like? The most famous case of an ISP favoring a certain website over another was revealed in 2007, when Comcast, the US’ largest ISP, had interfered with file sharing services offered on BitTorrent. Comcast clients reported difficulties, delays, or complete inability to up- and/or download from BitTorrent. The concept of Net Neutrality would prohibit actions like Comcast’s. We as Internet users would be able to use any website at the speed we pay for with whatever information we choose to read. ISPs would not be able to restrict (political) content that their representatives disagree with. Net Neutrality
June 14, 2014. Participants can register online or in person at any Long Beach Public Library. Children who sign up at their local library receive a free reading folder to keep track of titles read and a drawstring backpack. Even those learning to read can participate with their parents or caregivers. “Smartphone and tablet users can get reading recommendations, check their library account and see what’s new at their local library by
With Long Beach high school graduation ceremonies having started, the Long Beach Police Department would like to congratulate graduates and parents, yet remind them about the dangers associated with celebrating irresponsibly, and provide tips to keep them safe: Underage Drinking: Underage drinkers are more likely to involve themselves in unsafe behavior, or become a victim of a crime due to vulnerability. The affects of alcohol impair judgment, affects physical coordination, and may prevent one from maintaining control of their body. It may also cause an individual to ignore their morals and values, resulting in poor decision making such as driving under the influence. These factors can also lead to minors being more susceptible to being victimized because they may be considered an easy target. Therefore, the L.B.P.D. is strongly encouraging graduates and their families and friends to plan celebrations with these considerations and safety in mind. Curfew: Parents and youngsters are also reminded that the City’s curfew law will be strictly enforced. Section 9.58.010 of the Long Beach Municipal Code states: “It is unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years to remain in or upon any ‘public place’ as defined in Section 9.02.090, between the hours of 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. the following day.” The L.B.P.D. takes curfew violations seriously. Our experience has shown us that children who are on the street
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-Photo by Terry Miller
stands for an open Internet, one which protects and enables our right of free speech. However, in January 2014, court ruled that ISPs can now legally discriminate against websites and applications. ISPs can delay or block content, favor certain websites and corporations, and charge Internet companies various fees.
The freepress campaign Save the Internet provides a comparison: “Just as your phone company cannot decide who you could call and what you say on that call, your ISP should not be concerned with what content you view or post online.” The Federal CommunicaPlease see page 2
Long Beach Public Library announces 2014 summer reading club: Fizz, Boom, READ! Explore science through reading this summer, as the Long Beach Public Library announces a wide variety of free, educational, entertaining and fun programs to help the community fill their summer days. Everyone is invited to join the Summer Reading Club online or at any Long Beach Public Library. Participants can enter drawings to win some amazing prizes, including an eReader, tablet and backpacks filled with school supplies. All prizes are provided by the Friends of the Long
Beach Public Library and the Long Beach Library Foundation. “The Summer Reading Club generates interest in libraries and books - making reading a lifelong habit. It’s quite simply a very enjoyable way for children and adults to keep up their reading skills,” Mayor Bob Foster said. Research shows that children who read during the summer are much better equipped to learn when school reopens. Registration for Fizz, Boom, READ! is free, and begins today,
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Net neutrality Continued from page 1
tions Commission (FCC) reclassified broadband from “common carriers” or “telecommunications services” to “information services.” The court decided that due to this reclassification, the FCC lacks authority to enforce rules over network owners. Save the Internet informs that, ”freed from any legal restraints, ISPs can monitor everything you do and say online — and sell the information to the highest bidder. ISPs have something that companies like Facebook and Google don’t: direct control over your connections to the Internet and the devices you use to connect to it.” Furthermore, the campaign states that AT&T, Verizon and other ISPs “have been caught enabling unchecked spying and surveillance by the NSA and other government agencies.”
Net Neutrality is important for small business owners and entrepreneurs who use the Internet to promote their products. Without Net Neutrality, their opportunity to grow would be taken from larger companies with more money, who would simply pay ISPs to interfere, delay, or completely block websites from their emerging competitors. On May 15, the FCC proposed to make such actions legal. The Save the Internet campaign along with the American Civil Liberties Union, Common Cause, Slate, and others urge the public to demand a reclassification of ISPs. By signing online petitions directed at FCC chairman Tom Wheeler, whose plans go against Net Neutrality, we can demand our right for an open Internet, where free speech prevails and where our privacy is legally valued.
Long Beach Office 3780 Kilroy Airport Way Suite 360 Long Beach, CA 90806 Ph. (562) 472-0071 Fx. (562) 689-0071 Los Angeles Office 5701 South Eastern Avenue Suite 100 Los Angeles, CA 90040 Ph. (323) 727-1144 Fx. (323) 727-9198 www.heger-industrial.com Lic. #00814086
Stroll & Savor in Belmont Shore Belmont Shore's most popular event is a summer long "taste of Belmont Shore", with over 40 restaurants offering the best of their menus. Enjoy an evening strolling 2nd Street, savoring food from around the globe, and listening to talented local musicians as you stroll with your family, friends, and dogs (yes, we have treats for dogs too!) enjoy the festive atmosphere and indulge in all your favorite local restaurants. Stroll & Savor is a “Taste of Belmont Shore” held two-nights in May, June, July August & Sept.! This traditional Belmont
Shore event is enjoyed by the whole family, and is a great time to get together with friends, while strolling 2nd street and savoring the cuisine from our Belmont Shore restaurants. Live entertainment! The cost is $10 for a ticket book of 12 tickets. Use tickets for both nights in June only. Other Stroll & Savor dates: July 17, 18- August 14, 15, Sept. 17, 18 June 18 - Jeff Severson Band at Corona & 2nd June 19 - Tasty Fifth at Corona & 2nd
Graduation and summer break safety tips Continued from page 1
after curfew are more likely to become victims of violent crime, and also are more likely to become involved in criminal behavior. We are reminding parents that it is important for you to know where your children are at all times, and to ensure they get home safely before curfew. Curfew laws are in place to protect children/ youth and keep them safe, and the L.B.P.D. will enforce this law with your child’s safety in mind. By working together, we can help provide your child/ youth a safe and enjoyable summer break. Street Safety: The popularity of handheld electronics and other devices can make you an easy target for criminals hoping to obtain these valuables. For your safety, we are strongly encouraging you to practice the following safety tips at all times: •Do not make it obvious that you have an iPod, cell phone, or other electronic device •Whenever possible, avoid using your electronic device on the street •Don’t display your valuables in public (money, jewelry, etc.) •Always be alert and aware of your surroundings and the people around you •Stay in well-lighted areas
as much as possible •Places that make you vulnerable include dark parking lots, walkways, alleyways and restrooms •If you feel someone is following you, move to a wellpopulated area •Travel with a friend; there is safety in numbers •Walk close to the curb and avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys where someone could hide •Report suspicious activity immediately by calling 9-1-1 Alternatives: The City of Long Beach is offering a variety of summer programs, activities and classes for youth of all ages through the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine, and in partnership with the Long Beach Convention & Visitor Bureau. Concerts and movies in the park are fan favorites and something a family can do together. To learn more about these programs, visit www.longbeach.gov/park and www.100daysofsummer.org, call (562) 570-3100 or e-mail 100daysofsummer@longbeach.gov. For youth employment opportunities through the City of Long Beach’s “Hire-A-Youth” Program, visit the Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Network website at www.pacific-gateway.org/youth.
JUNE 16, 2014 - JUNE 22, 2014 | 3
hlr media EDITORIAL editor@belmontbeacon.com Editor Jennifer Schlueter Publisher HLR Media Advertising advertising@hlrmedia.com Submissions:
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Phone: (626) 386-3457 Fax: (626) 600-4452
Alhambra PRESS
Baldwin Park
INDEPENDENT
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Other Desert Cities 5 Tony Nominations, Including Best Play This funny, explosive and entertaining look at unruly family politics was a 2012 Pulitzer Prize finalist. The manicured life of an actor-turned-politician and his impeccable wife is upset when relatives arrive at their Palm Springs home for the holidays - including daughter Brooke who's publishing a tell-all memoir. With Brooke's parents trying to cling to their country-club social status, the family must come to grips with its family secret. Low-priced Previews: June 4-5 Dinner Package: Dinner for 2 at L'Opera or Sky Room & the show for just $139. Until June 29, 8pm10pm at the ICT at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center (562)436-4610.
LAPL summer reading club
Over 1 million workers involved in activities to prevent falls in construction Thousands of employers and more than a million workers across the country participated from 2 to 6 June in work stoppages to promote prevention and fall protection. The strikes were organized by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, for its acronym in English) for workers and employers to raise awareness about falls. Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry; hundreds of workers die each year and thousands more suffer serious injuries. The lack of fall protection is also the most frequently cited violation by OSHA, demonstrating that these deaths are preventable when employers provide the proper safety equipment and train employ-
ees. In Washington, DC, nearly 300 construction workers who are building the new National Museum of American History and Culture Afro participated in a strike to discuss the importance of safety in the workplace and how to prevent falls. "This is an unprecedented event. Tens of thousands of employers and hundreds of thousands of workers across the country joined our campaign to save lives and prevent fatal falls in construction," said Secretary Perez. "The economy is recovering, housing construction increases and the summer construction season is underway. Now is the time to focus on this crucial issue of security and ensure that all construction workers return home at the end of the day. "
Change lives. Make wishes come true.
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using the free Go Long Beach Public Library mobile app, available for Android and Apple devices,� said Glenda Williams, Director of Library Services. Free exciting programs include Musical Theater West, Shared Science and the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra Petting Zoo. To learn more about our Summer Reading Club visit any of the 12 neighborhood libraries, visit www.lbpl.org or call 562.570.7500. About the Long Beach Public Library: Long Beach Public Library, founded in 1896, includes the Main Library, eleven unique Neighborhood Libraries, and a vibrant online presence. With an emphasis on providing free and equal access to information and support for lifelong-learning, the library offers books, media, downloads, databases, internet access, and Family Learning Centers. The library also provides storytimes, cultural and literacy events.
Become a Make-A-Wish ÂŽ
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers for Make-A-Wish give their time and talents to help bring hope, strength and joy to children who are battling life-threatening medical conditions. We have a special need for volunteers in the Inland Empire to help local children.
Get Involved Today ocie.wish.org | 714-573-9474
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Kids ages three and up can dive into fun with summer camp at the Aquarium The Aquarium of the Pacific offers a variety of summer day camps that allow children as young as three the chance to dive into ocean science. Daily camp adventures introduce campers to ocean animals through hands-on activities, experiments, animal interactions, crafts, and educational tours of the Aquarium. Fish Fry Camp is a three-day morning program for three- to four-yearolds to enjoy exploring marine life with an adult parent or guardian. Five- to six-year-olds can be on their own for three mornings during the Sea Squirt Camp. For seven- to nine-year-olds, the fun continues with the five-day Ocean Adventure Camp, which includes opportunities to go behind the scenes and interact with some of the Aquarium’s animals and animal care staff. Jr. Biologist Camp offers even more chances to dive deeper into marine science for children ages ten to twelve, and the Marine Science Sleepover Camp, which includes a whale watch and Aquarium sleepover, is open to students thirteen- to fifteenyears-old. With programs offered all summer, the Aquarium has a variety of camps for young explorers. For availability, dates, times, pricing, and other details, please visit the Aquarium’s Day Camp webpage. WHEN: Various dates: June, July, and August. For available
dates, please visit: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/education/programs/category/summer_camps WHERE: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way. COST: For pricing details, visit http://www.aquariumofpacific. org/education/programs/category/ summer_camps Fish Fry: $110 per adult/child pair; $30 per additional person ($85 per adult/child pair; $20 per additional person for Aquarium members). Sea Squirt: $115 per child ($90 for Aquarium members). Ocean Adventure weeklong half-day: $160 ($140 for Aquarium members). Ocean Adventure weeklong full-day: $300 ($270 for Aquarium members). Junior Biologist weeklong full-day: $300 ($270 for Aquarium members). Marine Science Sleepover camp: $270 ($240 for Aquarium members). INFO: (562) 590-3100 or http://www.aquariumofpacific. org/education/programs/category/ summer_camps AGES: Fish Fry: Ages 3-4, with adult Sea Squirt: Ages 5-6 Ocean Adventure: Ages 7-9 Junior Biologist: Ages 10-12 Marine Science Sleepover: Ages 13 and up
California Fish and Game Commission votes to add gray wolf to state endangered list
Wolf track in snow. -Photo by Linda Hay. Photo courtesy of CA Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The California Fish and Game Commission has voted to move forward with listing the gray wolf as an endangered species under California law. The vote took place at the regularly scheduled Commission meeting in Fortuna on June 4. Commissioners Richard Rogers, Jack Baylis and Michael Sutton voted for listing, while Commissioner Jacque Hostler-Carmesin voted no. Commissioner Jim Kellogg was not present. “No land animal is more iconic in the American West than the Gray Wolf,” said Sutton, who is also president of the Commission. “Wolves deserve our protection as they begin to disperse from Oregon to their historic range in California.” The new regulatory language will take several months to complete and approve. However, today’s decision provides permanent protection for the gray wolf, and immediate protection under the California Endangered Species Act. That protection will remain in place throughout the required regulatory process. The gray wolf is already federally listed as an endangered
species and is therefore protected by the federal Endangered Species Act in California. The federal Endangered Species Act makes it unlawful to take any listed wildlife unless permitted by regulation. The term “take” means to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, collect or attempt to engage in any such conduct. The protection provided under federal law overlaps, but does not supersede, protection provided by listing under California law. At this time, there are no gray wolves known to be in California. A male wolf that originated in northeastern Oregon – known as OR7 – has crossed the Oregon/ California state line several times since December 2011. At this time, OR7 is in southwestern Oregon, where he has found a mate. On Monday, June 3, biologists from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife captured photographs of two wolf pups in the vicinity. For more information about gray wolves, including OR7’s travels in California, please visit www.dfg.ca.gov/wildlife/nongame/ wolf/FAQ.html.